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An Artillery Officer in 
The Mexican War 



1846-7 



Letters of Robert Anderson 

Captain 3rd Artillery, U. S. A. 



With a Prefatory Word by His Daughter 
Eba Anderson Lawton 



With 21 Illustrations 



G. P. Putnam's Sons 

New York and London 

^be f^nickecbocftec press 

1911 



E4-I' 



Copyright, 191 1 

BV 

EBA ANDERSON LAWTON 



TEbe Itnfclierboclser ptees, ttew Cotft 






©CI.A2J!79r6 



IN MEMORY OP 

MY MOTHER 

TO WHOM THESE LETTERS WERE WRITTEN 



INTRODUCTION 

THE story of the war which was carried on between 
the United States and Mexico during the years 
1846, 1847, ^^d 1848 constitutes an interesting and 
brilliant chapter in the history of the nation. The 
record of the campaigns of the little American army 
makes also a distinctive contribution to the history 
of war. Since this war was brought to a close, more 
than half a century has passed. Two generations have 
come and gone, and the scenes and events of these 
campaigns now belong to history or to tradition, while 
the art of war itself has been very materially modified. 
The deeds of brave men belong, however, to all genera- 
tions and a record of heroism and of patriotism serves 
to maintain the noblest impulses of human nature. 

The narrative in question falls naturally into three 
divisions: first, an analysis of the causes of the war, 
second, an account of the conduct of the campaign, and 
third, the actual consequences of the war. 

"The opening scene of the Mexican War aroused the 
country to a fever heat by reason of the tragic con- 
ditions that surroimded it. The first contention was 
over a narrow strip of comparatively worthless territory, 
lying between the Nueces River and the Rio Grande. 
The acquisition of Texas had led to the necessity of 
occupying the new boundary on the southwest, and 
General Zachary Taylor with a portion of our small 
regular army was sent to check any advance of Mexi- 
cans into the lately acquired territory. 



vi Introduction 

"He was met at the Nueces River by General 
Ampudia, in command of the Mexican forces, who 
forbade him to cross that river, claiming that the other 
side was undisputably Mexican territory. This demand 
General Taylor declined to accede to, and, crossing the 
Nueces, he proceeded at once to the left bank of the 
Rio Grande, where he threw up a field work, and placing 
in it a small garrison, he then moved the main body 
of his troops to the mouth of the river, for the purpose 
of bringing up supplies and reinforcements. No sooner 
had he turned his back, than Ampudia with a large 
force crossed the Rio Grande, besieged the earthwork 
afterwards known as Fort Brown, and prepared to 
dispute General Taylor's return. 

"This was the situation that aroused the whole 
Southern Cotmtry, especially the people of New Orleans 
and Mobile, as these were the points of embarkation 
for the seat of war. It was feared that the fort would 
be captured and its garrison massacred, and that 
General Taylor with his very inferior force might be 
cut to pieces. 

"A hundred thousand men would have embarked 
at once with their own rifles and shotguns if trans- 
portation could have been provided for them. All the 
cities of the South were the scenes of intense excitement, 
which was only relieved by the glorious news that was 
soon to come. 

"In the meantime, General Taylor, fully aware of 
what was going on up the river, prepared to return, 
raise the siege of Fort Brown, and confront the enemy. 
His little army was composed of superb material. Years 
of peace had served to recruit a fine class of men at the 
comfortable and attractive posts on the Northwestern 
frontier; the troops included school teachers, lawyers, 



Introduction ^ii 

physicians, and merchants, who had found their several ' 
vocations overstocked, or who had been obliged to 
yield the way tQ men of more push and energy, and had 
sought a temp6rary refuge in the army. A more intel- 
ligent body of soldiers could not be foimd in any army 
in the world. Each man was a host in himself, and 
each had a personal ambition to gratify. On the other 
hand, the Mexicans had become inspired with the 
idea that, compared with themselves, "the barbarians 
of the North" were an altogether contemptible lot, 
and so it was with a good deal of confidence that they 
undertook to interpose themselves between General 
Taylor and the little garrison of Fort Brown. 

"On a beautiful day of May, 1846, on the now his- 
toric field of Palo Alto, the Mexican army was drawn 
up in line of battle, with the artillery in position, sup- 
ported by a body of infantry, and flanked by squadrons 
of cavalry. General Taylor, arriving within sight of 
this impressive array, quickly formed his marching 
columns into line, and true to his familiar name of 
'Rough and Ready,' gave battle at once. 

"The field batteries opened their fire with a quickness 
that astonished the Mexicans, while their rapid dis- 
charge mowed down the infantry as with a scythe. For 
a time the Mexicans, in spite of the terrible fire, bravely 
held their ground, and many of our gallant officers and 
soldiers fell before them; but soon their ranks began 
to waver, and then 'Old Zack' ordered his cavalry 
to charge, which they did with a terrible effect. It was 
too much for the enemy, who broke and fled and who 
could not be rallied. But the American forces, after 
the fatiguing march in the sun, were in no condition to 
pursue them, and the army rested on the field it had 
so bravely won. 



viii Introduction 

"The next morning found the Mexicans recovering 
somewhat from their surprise, and with renewed cour- 
age taking up another position in the rear of the one 
they had abandoned, known as Resaca de la Palma. 
It is unnecessary to enter into details. Suffice it to say 
that the 9th of May by its signal victory added new 
lustre to the glory of the 8th. The Mexicans were 
utterly routed, seeking safety in precipitous flight or 
death by drowning in the river. 

"Fort Brown and its heroic garrison, that had so 
nobly repelled every assault, was relieved, and a new 
chaplet of fame had been won for our gallant Uttle 
army. Subsequently the army crossed the Rio Grande 
into the enemy's country. The capture of Monterey 
after a hard fought and bloody battle soon followed. 
And then came the glorious and surprising victory of 
Buena Vista where the enemy, commanded by Santa 
Anna in person, outnumbered our brave soldiers more 
than four to one, but the latter had become veterans 
of experience. 

"The seat of war was now transferred to the Gulf, 
where the army and navy united in the siege and cap- 
ture of Vera Cruz and of the strongly fortified Castle 
of San Juan d'Uloa that defended the harbor. Then 
began, imder General Winfield Scott, who, true to his 
name, never lost a battle, the long march for the 
capitol, the halls of the Montezumas. 

"Scott was now to achieve, on the lines followed 
by the great Cortez four centuries before, the second 
conquest of Mexico. Cerro Gordo, a marvellously 
strong position, was turned by strategic skill, and city 
after city threw open its gates until the victorious 
columns stood on the summit of the mountain range 
that overlooked the magnificent valley with the splen- 



Introduction ix 

did City of Mexico nestled in the centre. Scott had a 
mere handful of men compared with the legions that 
the world's great conquerors had led to battle, and if 
this army failed there was no retreat, and little hope 
for reinforcement. Down the mountainsides and into 
the great valley the army hastened, to the accompHsh- 
ment of the work before it. 

"A city on an island, in a lake, with no approach 
except by narrow causeways bristling with cannon! 
The army advanced, but not to the place prepared for 
them, where a victory would have been next to a defeat, 
but by a flank movement, executed with military 
genius, it succeeded in turning the elaborate and for- 
midable fortifications at El Pinon. 

"Yet there were battles to be fought, and won, before 
the prize could be grasped. There was Contreras and 
Cherubusco, Molino del Rey and Chapultepec, and 
then the Garrittas bristling with cannon was to be 
captiu-ed. ThevSe places all fell in turn, some of them 
with heavy loss. But what deeds of valor, what 
heroism, what dauntless courage did that little army 
exhibit ! Scant has been the meed of praise those heroes 
so dearly earned. Few have been the laurel wreaths 
upon the graves of those who 'poured their life's 
blood freely out "pro bono publico. " ' 

"There are few deeds in all the history of war to be 
compared with the contests of that little army that 
fought its way step by step to the heart of the great 
republic of the South, and whose campaigns were fol- 
lowed by the acquisition of the vast treasure house of 
the continent, from which the world has received more 
gold and silver than in all time it had before possessed. 

"To crown it all we restored to Mexico the country 
that we had so gallantly won, and we gave also sufficient 



X Introduction 

means to enable the race that had so long neglected 
its opportunities to enter on a career of industry, of 
usefulness, and of honor. A full measiire of prosperity, 
and a national security never before experienced, have 
been the result. No one is now more gladly welcomed 
or more honored in Mexico than an American. 

"To us as a nation, the Mexican War was a grand 
lesson of patriotism and a glorious exhibition of patri- 
otic valor. 

"This brief outline of the campaign enables us to 
understand the part taken in it by Anderson. Nothing 
could have given him more poignant distress than the 
decision made by the War Department which desig- 
nated his company among those that were to garrison 
the forts on the seaboard. 

"Notwithstanding the requirements for troops in 
Mexico, it was, of course, not practicable to leave the 
home stations entirely without garrisons. Anderson's 
company was ordered from Fort Moultrie first to Fort 
Marion, and then to Fort Brook. This did not meet 
with the approbation of the young captain of artillery 
who had left the staff for the line as a shorter road to 
active service, and he was well pleased when after a 
second application to the Adjutant-General, orders 
came for Company * G ' to embark for the seat of war. 
Palo Alto, Resaca, and Monterey had already crowned 
the little army with glory, and Genl. Scott was busy 
with the organization of his army for invasion by way 
of Vera Cruz."^ 

This resume of the inception and history of the 
Mexican War leads us up to the date of the beginning 
of Captain Anderson's letters to his wife. 

These letters are given without comment or notes. 

» From an unpublished Life of General Anderson by General Viele. 



Introduction xi 

All matters of a personal character are eliminated, as 
this book has been planned to present the events of 
the Mexican War in which he took part, and not those 
of his intimate home life. 

The letters of the young Captain present a vivid and 
valuable picture of the campaign. If we compare 
these pages with other narratives of the campaign, we 
may be struck with a similarity of wording. Anderson 
mentions several persons who appHed to him for memo- 
randa from his Journal and who afterwards published 
histories of the Mexican War. He also speaks of Colonel 
Hitchcock, who on the 3rd October "did me the honor 
to read to me a proposed Introduction to a number of 
Letters written in the City on the 20th of August, 
requesting my suggestion of any alterations that might 
occur to me." On the 4th October he writes his wife 
that not until the preceding day did he learn that 
"Genl. Scott had, about the 19th of last November, 
made appUcation for me to be appointed Asst. Adjt. 
Genl. with the rank of Major to enable him to select 
me as Chief of his Staff. " 

One reading Anderson's letter giving an account of 
the Battle of Molino del Rey, would hardly realize 
that he was the hero of the day. I quote from a very 
long article, entitled " Captain Robert Anderson," which 
appeared in the New Orleans Delta, a few sentences, 
showing the estimate in which his services on that 
occasion were held. "The gallant Kentuckian, who 
from the bombardment of Vera Cruz to the brilliant 



NOTE 

The citation given on page XI. was from an article brought into 
print in the Louisville Democrat, December 17, 1847. It appears that 
the Democrat had quoted from a paper printed some time eariier in the 
Delta of New Orleans. The article as published in the Delta was 
understood to have been written by a brother officer who had served 
with Captain Anderson in the battle of Molino del Rey. 



xii Introduction 

capture of this point, against such odds, and Captain 
Anderson's part in it, were pronounced by a gallant 
and distinguished officer, who bore an important com- 
mand on that occasion, as one of the most brilliant 
achievements of the war. . . . The fighting and excite- 
ment being over, Capt. Anderson became faint from 
loss of blood, and he was compelled to lie down, — to 
rest literally on the bed of honor." 

In closing this introduction I wish to draw the atten- 
tion of my readers to three salient points in Anderson's 
character, which shine forth clear as the sunshine in 
these, his private letters to his wife, and which, with 
his love of country, distinguished him through life : his 
deep religious feeling, his self-abnegation, and his mo- 
desty. Before the battle of EI-Molino-del-Rey, he 
writes, "Should God spare my life, I will resume this 
letter the earliest moment after Victory." In one of 
his early letters, January 28, 1847, he speaks of having 
a memorial signed by the officers for his "hobby" — 
the founding of a retreat for old soldiers. From 1837 
to 1 85 1, he had worked over this plan. He had five 
bills introduced into Congress, the first in 1840, and 
the last on March 3, 1851 ; this was passed by a large 
majority. He had wished the place to be called the 
"Soldiers' Retreat," in memory of the Kentucky home 
of his father. Colonel Richard Clough Anderson, and of 
his own birthplace. From the Louisville Times I quote 
the following, which, in view of the fact that his right 
as the Founder of the Home is now generally ignored, 
speaks better for his unselfishness and self-abnegation 
than for the gratitude of republics. "The humane 
sentiment which impelled Major Anderson to urge the 
establishment of such an institution, and the unceasing 
and laborious zeal and perseverance with which he has 



Introduction xiii 

pursued his conception to its final consummation, confer 
undying honor on him, and form a beautiful appendix 
to the glory his sword has so gallantly won in fighting 
the battles of his country." Anderson's letter of Feb- 
ruary 24th is very characteristic. Col. Gates had 
selected him as his associate at Tampico. Col. Bank- 
head told him, "that next to the officers of his own 
Regiment, he would rather have me with him than any 
one else. " " General Scott said that he wanted me in the 
trenches with him." Anderson adds, "There is so much 
in the preceding which would not be written to any one 
else but yourself as it: looks exceedingly like egotism, that 
I hope you will not read, or let it be read by any one." 
My noble father will forgive his daughter for making 
public at this time confidences which were intended 
only for his wife. She can but feel, however, that after 
an interval of 64 years, it is fitting that his countrymen 
should secure a clearer understanding of his character 
and of his service. It is indeed proper, if only as a 
matter of historic justice, that after more than half a 
century of silence, Anderson's fellow-citizens should 
realize that his action at Fort Sumter was only a logical 
consummation of a life spent in devotion to his country. 
The memoir of General Anderson, as presented in his 
Journals and Correspondence, is to be published shortly 
by G. P. Putnam's Sons. The preparation of this 
memoir has been undertaken by his daughter, not only 
as a task of filial duty, but also for the service of the 
community and with the conviction that the world will 
be richer for the record of the lifework of a high-minded 
and noble Christian patriot. 

Eba Anderson Lawton. 
New York, September, 191 1. 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

PAGE 

General Robert Anderson . . Frontispiece 

From a miniature. Copyright, 1901 

b- 

Major-General Robert Patterson ... 16 

General Winfield Scott 46 "^ 

View of Tampico 60 " 

Detroit Photo. Co, 

General Taylor 66 

View of Mount Orizaba from Vera Cruz . . 80 

From an old photograph 

The Siege of Vera Cruz . . . . 92 ' 

From an engraving of the painting by Powell 

General Santa Anna 106 

From a lithograph 

General William Jenkins Worth . . .111 

From an engraving by J. Sartain, after a daguerreotype 

Rough Sketch of the Battle-ground of Cerro 

Gordo — April 18, 1847 .... 138 

Panorama OF PuEBLA 170' 



xvi Illustrations 

PAGE 

PUEBLA DE Los AnGELES 1 76 

Mexican Water Carriers . . . . .188 

From a photograph 

Scene in a Mexican Market .... 204 

Detroit Photo. Co. 

View of Mount Iztaccihuatl from the East . 242 

From an old photograph 

The Pyramid of Cholula 252 

Redrawn from an old print 

Making Tortillas 262 

Detroit Photo. Co. 

A View of Popocatepetl from Puebla . .282 

From an old photograph 

I 

Scene at the Battle of Molino del Rey . .310 

From an engraving of the painting by Chappel 

The Battle of Chapultepec . . . -314 

From an engraving by J. Duthie after the painting by 
H. Billings 

Mexico City Looking Southwest from the 

Cathedral 328 



Fort Brooke, Fla. 
Dec. 7, 1846. 

Genl. R. Jones, Adjt.-Genl. 
General : 

I have the honor most respectfully and earnestly to 
soHcit orders for " G " Co., 3rd Arty., to report forthwith 
for duty in the field. The Company, having been raised to 
a total of 86 by the arrival of the recruits under Lt. Brown, 
is now ready and desirous to join the Army in Mexico. 
From conversations with Lt. Brown, I think I may safely 
promise, that these recruits will, by the time an answer is 
received to this application, and before they can sail, be 
pretty well prepared for taking their places in the rank's of 
the Company. The place of "G" Co., as part of this 
command, might, I think, be easily and properly filled by 
one of the companies of the ist Arty., now being raised at 
the North. This arrangement, certainly satisfactory to the 
officers of the ist Arty., would enable the War Dept. to 
send to Genl. Taylor's Army, a company excellently well 
armed and equipped, which contains a respectable propor- 
tion of well educated old soldiers, in place of one of raw 
recruits. 

Hoping that a favorable answer may be soon received to 
this application, 

I have the honor to remain, 

Robert Anderson, 

Capt. 3rd Arty. 



An Artillery Officer in Mexico 



Fort Brook, Florida, 
December 28, 1846. 

AFTER gazing from the hill-top, near which we se- 
parated, until I could see nothing more of the two 
rapidly receding conveyances which carried away from 
me my all, I returned with a heavy heart to our home. 
About 9 o'clock the poor Major came in and sat with me 
for a few minutes. Poor father, his afflictions are 
very heavy; he read me part of a letter from his son 
at Pensacola to his mother, urging her to come and live 
with and comfort his father. The letter was a very 
affecting one, and had it not been for the insanity of 
John, would probably have started Mrs. W. for Tampa. 
Of John, the accounts are somewhat favorable; he is in 
the Asylum, — but his Uncle thinks that the affliction 
is rather bodily than mental. God grant that he may 
be right. The Major has been so kind that I could not 
help giving the substance of his evening's communica- 
tion. He spoke of our separation with much feeling. 
I am employing myself as busily as possible in get- 
ting ready. God grant that I may hear before we 
start of your getting on well. Some person may come 
in who met you on the road. Be assured that I shall 
keep a good lookout that no one may come in without 
my questioning them about you. 



2 An Artillery Officer 

Mr. Capron told me this morning that Mrs. Steiner 
had, he beUeved, given up the idea of going across the 
country. She thinks of spending the winter here, and 
going to Ohio in the spring. I hope for Mrs. Capron's 
sake that the original intention may be carried out, 
as she will be very unpleasantly situated at this out 
of the way place without a protector. Corporal and 
Mrs. Hannel come to my room every day to make up 
my bed, sweep the floor, etc. I have seen the Sutler — 
he will take all of the eatables, etc., I have on hand. 
I am to send him the cooking utensils, etc., this after- 
noon. The carpenters are at work to-day on my camp 
bedstead, and the tailor is botching my jacket and 
pants — thus you see that I have not been unmindful of 
your requests. 

The papers which I have examined closely give 
no certain intelligence about our vessel. A barque 
cleared from New York on the nth inst. for 
Tampico. This may be oiu: vessel. It is the Floyd. 
I shall write you by the next mail — that is, you may ex- 
pect to receive another letter from this post, whether 
I am here on mail day or not, as, if I leave, I shall 
write you the day we sail. The men seem anxious to 
go ; everything is now ready for the vessel. 

I have not mentioned that I have joined the mess at 
Mr. Allen's — breakfast 8:30, dinner i, and tea at re- 
treat. We keep country hours, differing slightly from 
our household arrangements. Let us see how my 
calculations of your daily journeys agree with the 
facts. Last night I supposed you camped near Capt. 
Bradley's, to-night I shall locate you about ten miles 
beyond Col. Pearson's. I pray God that no accident 
may occur on your journey, and that you may soon 
reach home enjoying excellent health. Our prayers. 



In Mexico 3 

will meet, I hope, nightly in Heaven, as we pray for 
our own family. This thought will comfort my heart. 

Here you have on this part of the paper the in- 
formation I should have given you before we parted. 
It may be best to sell the articles through Capt. 
Hanham, if Col. M. does not want them. Do as you 
think best. Say to Col. M. that Dr. Curry has just 
informed me that he will deliver to him at Longwood 
his two mules for $165. One is a very large one, and 
works kindly in harness anywhere. Mrs. C.,he says, 
has driven him in a buggy. The smaller one, he says, 
is also an excellent animal. The large mule cost him 
$140. Their ages he thinks 6 and 8. If an answer be 
sent at once the mules may be sent by Dr. Steiner or 
Mrs. Capron's party. Dr. Curry is to be Capt. 
Sprague's medico. And now I '11 wish you good- 
evening till after tea. 

6:30. Just returned from tea. Capt. Sprague thinks 
that you are to-night about fifteen miles beyond Col. 
Pearson's, and that to-morrow night you will encamp 
fifteen miles beyond the Withlacoochee. This is a 
better allowance for your day's travel than I have 
given. I do not think that you can reach Col. Madi- 
son's earlier than Wednesday eve., he imagines that 
you may reach there on Tuesday. Oh ! that this letter 
could call to you as you enter the mail boat at Palatka 
and tell you of its being on board for you. It will be 
on board the same boat all the way to St. Mary's, 
and you cannot read it till you reach home, nearly four 
days after your having been almost within arm's 
reach of it. 

I have not paid a visit since you left. I saw every- 
body in church on Sunday, but spoke to no one but 
Mrs. Astell — who kindly approached me and asked 



4 An Artillery Officer 

when I left you and how I left you. I suppose that I 
ought to go in to see the Astells — I shall probably 
go nowhere else. I am sorry for poor Mrs. Capron, 
and hope something may occur to give her a safe and 
agreeable escort to her friends. 

You must not omit telling your father that Col. 
Madison left your Uncle John my calf about which I 
wrote him last summer. She is now about i8 months 
old, of Mr. Clay's best stock, her mother imported by 
Col. Morgan of Ky. I left her with Col. Hanson sub- 
ject to my order — intending to have requested you to 
send for her in the event of my not returning to St. 
Augustine — but he neglected her, and Col. Madison 
very kindly and properly took her away. I wish your 
father would get her while she is young, as I would like 
him to have her stock on his plantation, and when 
I get within striking distance I will either want her 
again or one of her calves. 

You see that I introduce all my business affairs — I 
do this to keep my mind from my lonesomeness, and 
also under the fear that after I get away from here my 
mind may be so much occupied that these trifles may 
escape me. I had intended writing to one of my 
brothers by this mail, but I must put it off till the next 
one. When our boxes are shipped from here I shall 
request Mr. Clark to inform you of it. And now I 
must bid you good-night. Let us try to be grateful to 
Him for the mercies with which He blesses us. I 
shall expect to find a letter from you in the first arrival 
from New Orleans after I reach Tampico. 

Fort Brook, Florida, 
December 29, 1846. 
The expected vessel has arrived — she is a brig 
belonging to the Government, called John Potter, 



In Mexico 5 

which sailed from New York on the 14th inst. having 
made therefore a very quick passage. We are to com- 
mence loading in the morning and will sail as soon as 
possible. This letter in which I propose writing a 
little every day will give you the time when. Lt. 
Burke, Adjt. of the 1st Arty., came passenger. He ac- 
companies us to Tampico, as he will remain with 
Maj. Whiting who will be the commander of the 
Regt. I have been busy to-day sending down our 
goods and chattels to the Sutler's. 

Dec. 30th. I had written thus far last evening, 
when the Sergt. came in with some papers for me to 
examine and sign, and I was engaged until some time 
after tattoo before I finished my labors. To-day we 
have been getting some of the Company's property 
on board — the vessel is so far down (below the island) 
that we work very slowly. In private business I have 
done pretty well. Mr. Clark has settled with me as 
far as he can; he has a Mem. of all the articles left, 
and has given me a copy. He will take a favorable 
time for selling everything. I have written to Mr. 
Adger informing him that one tierce, one trunk, and 
three boxes would be sent to him. I have requested him 
to keep them in store until he hears from me or from 
you. The Capt. of the Potter thinks we will run over 
in eight days. He thinks that we have an abundance 
of provisions. We shall not touch at the Balize. 

Mrs. C. has, I hear to-day, decided to accompany 
Mrs. S. on the New Orleans to Baton Rouge Barracks. 
If I had Mrs. S.'s money I do not think I would ever 
think of living at barracks whilst separated from my 
husband. Poor Mrs. C. would, I suppose, have to go to 
Kamchatka if Mrs. S. goes there, as she has no one to 



6 An Artillery Officer 

take charge of her. I thank God that you have not 
been dependent on any of them for anything. 

I hope that we may not get off until after the mail 
comes in, as I may get a line from my wife. What a 
relief it would give me to know that you had gone on 
without accident after I left you. It cannot be pos- 
sible that I am not to hear from you until I reach Tam- 
pico, and probably not until after I have been two or 
three weeks there ! God has been so full of mercies and 
kindnesses towards me and mine that I cherish the belief 
and hope that when I do hear, the news will be good. 

My camp bedstead and everything is now ready. 
I have nothing to do but to pack. I have decided not 
to take sheets. Good-night. 

On Board the "John Potter," 

Fort Brook, Florida, 
Thursday, December 31, 1846. 
This has been a busy day. It being muster day, I 
have of course had writing to attend to, and we have 
been "engaged sending our stores on board. The 
distance by the channel to the position of the brig is 
about nine miles. My private affairs have not been 
neglected, the cow having been sold at a loss of only 
one sixth. The carpenters and sail-makers have 
finished their work for the Company, and all are now 
ready to start as soon as we can get on board. The 
chances are now that we cannot leave before Saturday 
or perhaps Sunday. To-morrow night's mail may 
bring a letter from you ; oh, how sincerely do I hope it 
may if it be only two lines to say you are well. 

Friday Night, January i, 1847. 
The beginning of a New Year. God grant that 



In Mexico 7 

it may bring happiness to us — that we may this year so 
live as to thank our Heavenly Father for the bless- 
ings it brought. Not a line to-night from you — this is 
as I anticipated ; my reason told me it would be so ; 
hope whispered that I might hear. 

I send a sweet letter to you from Mrs. Clinch. 
It was written before the receipt of my letter announc- 
ing my having received orders. No other letter came 
but a very affectionate one from William with a short 
one from his son Tom. I must answer them to-night 
as it is probable that I shall be on board to-morrow 
night. Everything or rather nearly everything is now 
done. It is proposed to get the men on board to-morrow, 
and early the next day, that we may sail on Sunday. 
This may therefore be the last night I shall sleep in 
my old quarters. Although you are gone, yet there is 
something a little touched with mournfulness in the 
idea of my going out of the old rooms not to return 
into them again. 

To-day I have packed and had the Company's desk 
boxed and commenced packing my mess chest. I 
find that I have plenty of room. I think even of taking 
the soup digester with me. Good soup would not be 
amiss even at Tampico. Some of the ladies expected, 
I am told. New Year's calls. I have been so much en- 
gaged that had I been ever so much inclined, I could 
not have gone round. Without anything to do, my 
inclination would have kept me at home. As my red 
ink is boxed up, I must attempt crossing with this. 
To-morrow you will perhaps leave Longwood. 

Saturday Night, January 2, 1847. 
Here I am on board our good brig; nearly all the 
men are down ; to-morrow morning we shall sail as soon 



8 An Artillery Officer 

as the remainder (about twenty) are on board with the 
Major and other officers. I preferred coming down to- 
day with the Command, so as to give Lt. Capron as 
much time with his poor wife as possible. I called to 
say good-bye to her, and she was very much affected. 
I called at Mr. Astell's but they were at tea. I 
did not have time to call at the Doctor's, every 
moment of my time being taken up. Capt. Sprague 
received a long letter from Mr. Judd. He writes from 
Tampico, and says that he has very pleasant quarters 
there. Col. Gates and Lt. Col. Belton are there. 
We expect to find Genl. Scott there with a large force, 
as the papers are filled with accounts of the move- 
ments of Volunteers towards that place. There was a 
rumor to-day of Col. Andrews being on his way — if so, 
you must have met him. I hope if he comes in to-night 
that he will come down to-morrow. 

I am exceedingly anxious to hear from you, or to see 
some person who has met you. I fear, however, that 
I shall have to sail without this last satisfaction. You 
are, I suppose, on the road from Col. M.'s to Palatka. 
God grant that you may reach home in good health, 
and that you, finding how much joy you impart to 
others, may soon begin to look upon the bright side of 
things. I shall write you by every opportunity, but 
you must not worry if you do not receive a letter every 
mail, as opportunities may not occur so often even as 
that. As the Postmaster is to be on board to-morrow, 
I shall not close this letter to-night. 

On Board the "John Potter," 

Sunday Morning, January 3, 1847. 

The last boat load of the Command is now coming, 

and the Capt. of the brig has gone in his boat to 



In Mexico 9 

bring the rest of the officers. This looks Hke moving. I 
had thought until last night that I was about taking my 
departure from the United States, but the Capt. says 
that he took papers from New York exactly as if he 
were going from one port to another in the United 
States. Indeed the march of Democracy is progressive. 

How different to-day from the Sundays when we were 
together — then all quiet, now all bustle and confusion. 
The officers do very well on board, but the accommoda- 
tions are not sufficient for the number of men. We 
have a very comfortable, airy, and commodious cabin 
on deck, they have lines of berths extending the length 
of the hold, badly lighted and scarcely ventilated at 
all. Fortunate will it be for the men if our trip is 
short. The nights are so pleasant that many of them 
will sleep on deck. 

Major Whiting received a letter from his wife by 
yesterday's mail. She had heard of his orders and 
writes to him cheerfully : tells him that the Power who 
has thus far preserved them will continue his protec- 
tion; that he must not be worried about her; that 
she and the children will get on very well. But the 
best of her news is about their son, whose condition is 
favorably mentioned. Do not forget to mention to 
your father that the Intelligencer and Courier are still 
probably sent to Charleston; they had better be dis- 
continued; it is useless to send them to me as I shall 
never get them. 

We take as passengers out with us from Tampa Bay 
— the Clerk of the Court, Mr. Wan, and the brother of 
the Postmaster. They go to Mexico to seek their 
fortunes — anything for a change. The United States 
will be depopulated by their conquests. Each State, 
as it is conquered, will be considered the most desir- 



10 An Artillery Officer 

able part of the world. Florida is no longer the land 
of promise. I have directed Mr. Clark to forward the 
proceeds of the sale of the articles left with him direct 
to you. I gave our poultry and some few things away. 
It was useless to take many things with me, and hardly 
worth while to send others to sell. Having now nearly 
reached the bottom of the page, and finished re- 
writing the whole, I must now bid you adieu. 

Brig "John Potter," 

January 25, 1847. 

Here we are at anchor off the bar at Tampico, and 
the steamboat is now approaching to tow us to town. 
Hoping that an opportunity may present itself for 
sending this letter, I have determined to attempt 
writing, though I fear from the rocking of the boat, 
and the confusion of all on board, that my scrawl 
will be illegible. We have had two or three pretty 
severe storms, but preserved by the Father of all 
mercies, we are now at our destined port. To-morrow 
week we were where we now are, and were blown off 
by a Norther. We are reduced to a short allowance 
of provisions and water, so that it is well for us that we 
are to get in to-day. 

You do not know how full my heart has been con- 
stantly of you. You will be, I know, wretched at not 
hearing from me, — will think that we are lost. Place 
your confidence, I beseech you, in God who has show- 
ered so many blessings on us since our destinies have 
been united. He has protected both of us in many 
dangers, and will not forsake us unless we forget Him. 

We have a Mexican subject on board, but as he does 
not speak a word of English, and we have no one on 
board who spealcs Spanish, we can get very little in- 



In Mexico n 

formation from him. We do not know whether Genl. 
Scott is at Tampico or not. As the steamer is now 
alongside, I will stop writing a few moments, and finish 
as we go up the river. 

We are now safely over the bar, and a small boat is 
on the point of leaving us for the Ellen and Clara 
which is to sail to New Orleans in the morning. I shall 
send this scrawl as I may not have an opportunity of 
writing again. A steamer is now coming down from Tam- 
pico to tow us up — we having sent the one that brought 
us over the bar to tow a bark, which is said to have 
troops on board. As I shall not have an opportunity 
of sending this off ^ will take it up to Tampico with me. 

Off Tampico. Finding that the letter I have writ- 
ten since we anchored is but little better written than 
this, I think I shall send this. The next time I write, 
I hope that my hand and head will both have recovered 
from the effects of sea-sickness. I am truly rejoiced 
that you had no sea voyage to take to reach home. 
All on board, except Major Whiting, suffered very 
much ; the Major has improved very much. He looks 
much better than he did at Tampa Bay. 

I hope to find a letter from you in the first mail from 
New Orleans. Were it not that I am exceedingly de- 
sirous you should hear from me by the earliest oppor- 
tunity, I would not send you this letter as really I am 
ashamed of my writing. But as I am writing, or 
rather attempting to write, on a ship's table, and at this 
time with a very bad light, and as it is probable that I 
should not write any better to-morrow, I will and must 
send this. You can make out what I mean. Finding 
that I will have a little time for writing a few lines in 
the morning, I will now bid you good-night. 



12 An Artillery Officer 

Tampico, January 26th, 9 p.m. 

Finding that the mail would not leave until six 
o'clock to-morrow, I have kept this letter open that 
I might give you the last news. I have attended 
to-day to landing the Company, etc., and to getting 
them made comfortable in the quarters. To-morrow 
I shall move them into other quarters where I am to re- 
main till we leave here. We shall be very comfortable. 
I am now writing at Lt. Austine's table. Col. Gates 
has just left the room to allow my finishing my let- 
ter. He has been talking a great deal about his wife 
and child. From his own account it seems to me that 
the Col. depended too much on himself in attending to 
his child. He says that Mrs. Gates became strongly 
attached to the little boy. 

To-day I have been looking around the town — it is 
not a Mexican or Spanish town in its construction. 
Most of the good houses being constructed by English 
or German residents, the walls are very thick and sur- 
rounding courtyards. Until the Volunteers came, the 
citizens appeared inclined to be sociable. But now 
many have left, and gone into the interior. Genl. 
Whitman's Brigade arrived within ten miles of camp, 
and is there encamped. I have seen many of my old 
army friends here to-day. Capt. Myers will sleep in 
the same room with me to-night. I have not seen 
him yet. Mr. Brown, whom I saw this morning, ex- 
presses himself anxious to join me. He will, I expect, 
be assigned to-morrow. Lt. Andrews has been assigned 
to the Company temporarily to-day. Mr. Judd, tell 
Mary, looks exceedingly fierce with his moustachios. 
He does not shave at all — I wonder that he is not 
alarmed at his own likeness in the glass. I must now 
bid you farewell for the present, as I know Col. Gates 



In Mexico 13 

keeps early hours for retiring, and I fear that I am keep- 
ing him up. No news from Genl. Scott — he is daily 
expected. Maj. McCall inquired very kindly after 
Genl, Clinch to-day. 

Brig "John Potter," Tampico, 

January 25, 1847. 

We are here at last, and fearing that you may 
have heard through the newspapers of our reported 
distress for want of provisions, etc., which we find 
prevailing here, I hasten to write the first moment 
after our anchoring. We have had two severe storms, 
one very severe, but Almighty God, who has ever 
watchfully preserved me, has brought us into safety, 
and we are now so grateful that we think lightly of the 
dangers we have passed. I can never forget it, as I was 
aware at the time of the danger we were in, and 
placed my reliance on the only Power which could 
save us. 

The first person who came on board to see me was 
Adjt. Austine; he gave me all the news. Lts. Steptoe 
and Judd have returned to this place from an ex- 
pedition about fifty miles to the north a few days since. 
There are now three companies of the 3rd Arty, here 
quartered in the city — the Company I bring makes 
the third. You see that I am fortunate again, as the 
barracks are excellent. Poor Maj. Whiting is to go 
into camp — joining Lt. Capron's Company to three 
others already here. Genl. Patterson arrived yester- 
day with his Division. Our two companies raise the 
force now here to a fraction over 7000 men — a very 
respectable force. Genl. Worth is reported to be on 
his way with all the regulars from the Monterey 
Army ; Genl. Twiggs came with Genl. Patterson ; Genl. 



14 An Artillery Officer 

Shields was here, but left yesterday for old Tampico 
— a few miles hence. 

Genl. Taylor had advanced as far as Victoria, and 
was ordered back to Saltillo or Monterey. Genl. 
Scott is expected in about a week. What we are then 
to do, no one knows. Rumor says that the City of 
Vera Cruz is to be taken — that Genl. Taylor is to ad- 
vance towards San Luis de Potosi, to keep Santa Anna 
in check, whilst Genl. Scott takes Vera Cruz — the 
invincible Castle of San Juan d'Ulua will not be at- 
tacked. When the city is taken, it must fall, as our 
Navy will cut off their supplies by sea, and the Army 
in possession of Vera Cruz will prevent succor by land. 
An English gentleman who arrived from Vera Cruz 
yesterday reports that there are not more than 4000 
troops in Vera Cruz, and that if the city is approached 
by an army of 5000 or 6000 American troops, it will 
surrender without a struggle. 

Of Mexican news the reports are contradictory; 
one is that the Congress consents to renewing diplo- 
matic relations with our Govt, by a vote of 300 to 250 ; 
another report, that they decide against renewing these 
relations, by that vote. It is stated, however, that the 
Mexican Congress have enacted a law requiring the 
priesthood to assist the Govt, with money — and this 
law will produce a revolution which may lead to 
peace. After I get on shore I will write you a more con- 
nected letter than this — I merely give you the floating 
rumors in this. 

Our cousin Saml. Anderson came to see me soon 
after we anchored. He looks very well and says that 
all are delighted with their position here ; the market 
is very good — an abundant supply of everything, and 
at very reasonable rates. What think you of teal 



In Mexico 15 

ducks fifty cents per dozen ! — common ducks twelve and 
one-half cents a pair. These were the prices asked 
when the troops first came here — now they are a little 
higher. The town, in which I have not yet been, looks 
very well from our boat. The streets are well paved, 
and the houses well built — the large have courtyards 
enclosed by them. A splendid house is being fitted 
up for Genl. Scott. 

Capt. P. is here; he is Sutler and Postmaster; if he 
keeps steady, he will soon make a fortune. His nephew, 
David Wells, arrived yesterday. Col. Gates is, I am 
told, looking very well. Drs. Hawkins and McLean are 
both here. Lt. H. Brown is also here. Brig. Genl. 
Shields has attached him to his Stafl. Adjt. Austine 
told me that Col. Gates would at once apply for Mr. 
Brown to be assigned to my Company. I would be 
very happy to have Lt. B. again. We are fortunate 
in getting all the men here in pretty good health. 
Corp. Hannel has a slight touch of the jaundice. 

One German sang every mild night of our passage over. 
I find the band of the 3rd Arty, here, also the bands of 
three other Regts. They alternate in playing on the Plaza 
every night. Your first letter will, I hope, give me full 
news. What would I not give to be one half hour with 
you ! I will, however, apply myself closely to my duties, 
and do all that in me lies to bring this war to a close. 

Do always write me fully; your letters may be sent 
to me, Tampico, Mexico, via New Orleans. As this is 
now a United States city, it will not be necessary to pay 
the postage on your letters. My heart leaped with 
pride when I saw the United States flag flying over the 
City of Tampico, but that pride was soon checked 
when I thought of the power of the United States, and 
the weakness of Mexico. God grant that peace may 



i6 An Artillery Officer 

soon be effected. This letter is so badly written that 
I will not attempt to cross it. I pray you to burn it as 
soon as you have read it. 

No. I. Tampico, Mexico, 
January 27, 1847. 

I moved to-day, Wednesday, 27th of Jany., into very 
good quarters near the principal Plaza of the City. I 
hope that the Company will soon get on their land legs, 
and become again decent to be looked upon. I paid my 
respects to-day to Brig. Genl. Patterson — found him 
very affable and gentlemanly. He thinks that we have a 
sufficient force now assembled in and near the City to 
take Vera Cruz, and is very anxiously expecting Genl. 
Scott daily. Genl. Worth is, he says, on his way to this 
place. 

We have already more rank than I ever saw together — 
Major Genl. Patterson, Brig. Generals Twiggs, Pillow, 
Quitman, and Shields, Genl. Patterson being the Genl. 
of this Division of the Army. Volunteers raised for the 
war are hourly expected. Those who are now here are, 
at this time, indulging somewhat freely in frolicking, as 
a reward, I suppose, for the abstemiousness necessarily 
practised during their long marches. Your old friend, 
Yawn, joins Genl. Patterson's Military family to-mor- 
row as clerk. He conducts himself so well that it gives 
me pleasure to advance his interests. I spoke to Genl. 
Patterson to-day about him, mentioned under what 
circumstances he enlisted, the estimation in which he 
was held by the business men of Charleston, etc. 

Breakfasted with Capt. Myers, and a friend or two 
at a caf6 — fried fish, venison steak, eggs, buckwheat 
cakes, fried bananas, and coffee, all neatly served and 
well cooked. Dined at the same house with a mess — 




MAJOR-GENERAL ROBERT PATTERSON 



In Mexico 17 

Drs. Harney, Satterlee, and Cuyler — soup, baked fish, 
broiled and roasted duck (excellent) with lettuce 
salad, Irish and sweet potatoes. From these bills of 
fare (omitting, as I do, an excellent bottle of cham- 
pagne at dinner) you will find that there is no danger of 
my starving. Were you here, I could live as happily 
and comfortably as at any other place. 

Miss Chase, the lady (Irish) who distinguished her- 
self by raising the American flag as our Navy was com- 
ing up to town (three miles) from the bar, has invited 
Mrs. Col. Gates to come and take a room at her house. 
The Col. has sent the invitation but does not know 
whether she will come or not. I would not experience 
the anxiety I should entertain at the idea of your be- 
ing on your way to this place for anything in this 
world. The Col. writes her that he will probably leave 
this place before she can get here. 

Intending to write you daily, I will now close this 
day's letter by wishing you good-night. 

Thursday, January 28, 1847. 
To-day I dined with Maj. Morris, Chef de police de 
Tampico. He deserves very great credit for his un- 
tiring zeal and attention to his duties. His authority 
is necessarily very extensive, all being subject to his 
supervision. Yesterday he sent a Capt. and Lt. of 
Volunteers to the guard-house. He orders any house 
where there is rioting or unnecessary noise to be in- 
stantly closed, and his authority is undisputed. To- 
day I am Officer of the Day, and have the right of 
exercising nearly all the above mentioned authority, 
but as my plan and desire is, to prevent rather than 
to suppress, I have already stopped by timely advice 
one or two incipient cases of riotous conduct. 



is An Artillery Officer 

10:30. Just returned from the American Theatre, 
which I had to visit as Officer of the Day — heard "O'er 
the Mountain Brow" melodiously sung by the favorite 
of the night. There were plenty of good subjects for a 
row, but the fear of the bayonets of the Guard who were 
present kept them moderately quiet. On my return, 
I passed round and found the town unusually still. 
Another Norther — as the storms from that direction 
are called — is now screaming its approach. The term 
screaming is strictly applicable to the storm as it ex- 
erted its fury on our vessel whilst under its influence 
at sea. No news from Genl. Scott or from the northern 
portion of the Army. Saw Genl. Persifer Smith to-day 
— he is looking very well. 

I THINK OF CIRCULATING A PETITION TO CONGRESS 

RELATIVE TO ARMY ASYLUM, as we have now a very 
large portion of the Regular Officers within a few 
miles of this City, and I find I have active friends 
in each Camp who would take pleasure in aiding me. 
I have been looking round for something for you, but 
have seen nothing very rare or nice. 



Friday, January 29, 1847. 

To-day I marched fifty of the 3rd to the Camp of 
the 2nd Arty, when under the command of Capt. 
McKenzie, we rehearsed the ceremony of receiving 
Genl. Scott hourly expected from Brazos. I play the 
second fiddle — the escort of honor is composed of 200 
men. Genl. Pillow's Brigade has moved its camp nearer 
town — sorry for it, as we shall have an additional 
number of the hoys to keep in order. 

I have just returned from dining with our friend, 
H. Brown. We had an agreeable party and a very 



In Mexico 19 



5 7 

good dinner. Guests : Genl. Shields, Adjt. Austine, Dr. 

36 2 

Hawkins, Lt. Lovell, and Capt. Anderson. Hosts (or 

I 8 

Mess) : Col. Kinney (Texan Danl. Boone) , Lt. Brown 

4 
and Lt. Collins. I will not describe the dinner, as it was 

an American, not a Mexican dinner. Col. Kinney is an 
extraordinary man, and probably knows more of the 
Mexican character than any one with the Army. I was 
rejoiced to find no animosity in his conversation towards 
the Mexican common people, which I expected from 
him as the Texan Ranger; on the contrary he concurs 
with me in sympathizing with them. Genl. Shields is 
the "Commissioner of the Land Office," and a devoted 
friend of the President. I think that I have in him 

A GOOD FRIEND OF THE ARMY ASYLUM. A few SUch 

men will carry the measure through Congress. I am 
to give him a copy of the Bill. No. 3 looks as though 
he was not quite so sedate as when Nancy was with 
him. No. 4 is A. D. C. to No. 5. No. 6 is the son of 
the late Surgeon-Genl,, and the young gentleman you 
saw at Old Point. No. 8 received me very warmly, 

I learned from conversation at the table that some of 
the principal men of this part of the Country are now 
considering whether they shall not at once raise a 
Mexican force, attach themselves to our Army, and 
declare at once against the Govt., either holding out the 
flag of annexation, or of a separate Govt, under the 
protection of ours. Thus far it seems that our course 
here has conciliated the inhabitants, and it may lead 



20 An Artillery Officer 

to important results. All think that if the troops 
were withdrawn in a short time even, that their pre- 
sence and the attending introduction of our goods at a 
rate so much cheaper than the poor Mexicans have 
ever before purchased them, with the swarm of enter- 
prising Yankees introduced into the Country, will event- 
ually produce, inevitably, the downfall of the Spanish 
influence. A Mexican is said to have arrived this day 
with important news from the interior. I have not 
heard whether the rumor be true or false. 

As a mail is to go to New Orleans to-morrow morning, 
I shall close this letter to-night. One month and 
three days (five weeks) have gone since I saw you — 
and I have not one word from you. *T is not your 
fault as I know that you write constantly — too fre- 
quently for your health I fear. You must, I entreat 
you, be careful of yourself. Could I only be assured by 
one word that you were well, how warmly I would 
thank our Heavenly Father — as it is, I must rely upon 
His protecting mercies for what He has done, with an 
earnest hope that He has, and does, still guard and 
provide for my darling wife. 

How you would enjoy what I scarcely now hear, 
though playing near my Quarters, the bands of the 1st, 
2nd, and 3rd Regts. Arty. — the band of the 4th has not 
yet arrived. One band is now playing — they alternate 
in playing every other night. 

A mail arrived this evening from New Orleans via 
Brazos — it brought nothing for me but a Volume of 
Tactics from Washington. I cannot learn that any 
news of Genl. Scott's movements was received. All 
are in the dark here — eagerly, anxiously looking for 
his arrival. No one knows who his Staff Officers are 
to be. It seems to be expected that Congress will 



In Mexico 21 

give him another Asst. Adjt. GenL, and that he will 
not deprive either of the Genls. now in the field of 
theirs. I see no good reason for this suggestion as he 
can call very properly for either of them, and let these 
Genls. select Lts. to perform the duties of A. A. Genl. 
in their Military Families. I find that I have been un- 
intentionally led into a Military discussion. A truce 
with all such stuff. 

You have a right to expect from me some remarks 
upon the Mexicans, but as yet I have seen nothing of 
them except of the lower class, who differ very little 
in social position from our slaves. They work for us, 
unload our vessels, assist in throwing up embankments 
to the fortifications around Tampico, etc. ; in fact, they 
seem to evince no dissatisfaction at our presence. 

You must know that our troops have been busily 
engaged ever since their arrival in fortifying the town, 
as in the event of the movement of the Army from 
this place a garrison sufficiently large to defend the 
City will be left here. Each Regt. hopes that it will 
not have to remain. Col. Bankhead is on his way out 
— he cannot be fit to go into the field, and would 
make a very respectable Governor. Major Whitney 
cannot go into the field. I am rejoiced to hear that 
he has been assigned to quarters in the City. 

Our flagstaff is planted in the centre of the plat- 
form on which it was intended to erect a monument to 
Santa Anna. To what strange uses are the vain pur- 
poses of man sometimes applied! I will here narrate 
an anecdote connected with the raising of our flag here, 
which was told at dinner to-day. An old Mexican 
about ninety, when it was raised, observed to a man 
standing near him: "Well, I am not sorry to see that 
flag going up. That flag has been my ruin. I came 



22 An Artillery Officer 

from Spain, and I was then young, and was sent into 
Louisiana; that flag came and I then went into 
Florida; in a few years the same flag came, and I 
then came to this place expecting never to be disturbed 
by it again. But there it is — the same flag, the same 
people." This was substantially the comment of the 
old Spaniard, and evidences in a few words the aston- 
ishing increase and growing power of our Country. 
God grant that it may be all for the best. 

As I intend writing you a letter every day so as to 
give you a bulletin by each of your weekly mails, I 
shall now close this letter that it may leave in the mail 
of to-morrow, as I do not know when I shall have an- 
other opportunity. Do write me how you are. I will 
not close without saying that I have entirely recovered 
from my sea-sickness, and that I can now relish very 
well a good dinner. 

No. 2. Tampico, Mexico, 
January 29 and 30, 1847. 
I have this moment (9 p.m.), returned from a 
dinner given by the offlcers of the 2nd Infy. to 
those of the 2nd Arty. Though feeling very little like 
dining out to-day, I thought I could not refuse the in- 
vitation, as it would enable me to become acquainted 
with many young officers of those Regts. whom I did 
not know. The dinner was abundant and pretty well 
cooked, but it was not served in the home style always 
indicating the supervisory care of woman. Genl. 
Patterson was the principal guest and gave us speeches 
enough to last for half a dozen dinners. What he said 
was very well, but too much of it for a festive board. 
Compliments were bandied from the Regts. — the hosts 
and the guests, and many witty, and some very smart 



In Mexico 23 

speeches were made. When Genl. Taylor and some 
others of the Mexican conquerors were toasted, the 
utmost enthusiasm prevailed. Good old Genl. Brady- 
was warmly toasted. No toast was given to Worth — 
and none, except one not understood by one half at 
the table, was given to Genl. Scott, until towards the 
close of the dinner, and that one was very coldly re- 
ceived. Genl. S. is not known and is therefore un- 
appreciated by these gentlemen. I venture, however, 
to predict that at the close of the first campaign under 
him, these same gentlemen will warm at the mention of 
his name. I rejoice at his approach. 

Genl. Taylor feels hurt, I fear, at Genl. Scott's hav- 
ing stripped him of most of the Regulars with whom 
he has won so much glory; he should, however, re- 
flect that Genl. Scott's success is a national, not a 
personal one. We learn this evening that Genl. 
Worth has arrived at the Brazos with his Brigade. 
It is probable that we shall not see him here, as we 
presume that his command will concentrate with the 
Volunteers imder orders for the seat of war at the 
Lobos Islands — about forty or fifty miles to the south of 
this place — where it is said that the vessels will have 
safe anchorage. Good-night, etc. 

Sunday, 31st. 
It is so late, that I can write you only a few 
lines before retiring. The Sloop of War, Albany, 
arrived this morning from Vera Cruz with Lt. Rains 
(Old Point acquaintance) on board with dispatches from 
Commodore Conner for Genl. Scott. Lt. Rains was, 
I understand, in the City of Vera Cruz — there are about 
1500 men in the City and 800 in the Castle. Troops 
may be safely landed under the protection of the gims 



24 An Artillery Officer 

of our Fleet, about three miles from Vera Cruz, when 
the City may be taken without exposure to the fire 
of the Castle d'Ulua. The City is not defended, or 
defended badly, from a land attack, and must readily 
fall. The Castle would of course follow. 

From all that I can learn, it seems that Santa Anna 
can not succeed in exciting the common Mexicans 
against us — the kind treatment received from us con- 
trasts so forcibly with the harsh conduct of the Mexi- 
can officers and officials as to operate very much in 
our favor. Many contend that we ought to live on the 
country to make them feel the horrors of war, and that 
then they will sue for peace. Perhaps not. It may be 
that a change of policy on our part would excite the 
common people so much, as to make resistance to the 
death a cardinal principle with them; hence would 
result an enthusiasm which would reader the country 
unconquerable. Every City and Town might then fall 
before the force of our Arms, and still we would meet 
with enemies in every moimtain recess, and behind 
every burn. Good-night. God bless you. 

Monday, February ist. 
Tampico is a very pretty town — ^but its people 
do not look like any you ever saw. Everything 
here would look strange to you. The men wear large 
palmetto hats, or broad brimmed and high black 
polished hats with brass knobs on them, which they 
think make them look pretty. They wear blankets 
thrown over their shoulders — some of these blankets 
are of very rich colors and cost as much as $60 for one. 
The people here would make you feel sorry for them, 
if you could see what heavy loads they carry on their 
backs. They have a strap, passing over the top of 



In Mexico 25 

the forehead, which is fastened at each end to a thick 
soft pad which rests on the shoulders — this pad keeps 
the heavy things from hurting their shoulders. I 
saw a small Mexican carrying, the other day, a barrel 
full of loaf sugar. Four men will, with these pads, 
carry very large boxes, as big as your largest box — 
the two men at the corners behind bend their heads 
down so low that the box rests on the pads. Some of 
the men wear very curious-looking pants — they have a 
white pair made with very large legs; over this comes 
another pair open on the outer seam almost all the way 
up to the top. 

You must not think that I do not get enough to eat 
— oysters and fish are nearly as good as those at 
Tampa, A fish called "barilla" is perhaps better 
than those we had at Tampa. Oranges four for a 
sixpence, wild geese twenty-five cents, ducks four 
cents apiece, and very good they are — in the market 
I find more kinds of peppers then I ever saw any- 
where; one of the large peppers is called dulce, and the 
skin has a sweet taste. I am getting seeds of the dif- 
ferent kinds of peppers and beans I see. Every day 
lettuce, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes (brought here), 
tomatoes cultivated and wild, egg plants, and several 
kinds of vegetables which do not grow in the places 
where you have lived, are found in the Market. The 
Mexicans sit down on the pavement in a large square, 
and have their market goods near them. You might 
buy a cup of chocolate in the Market and some nice 
fresh rolls or cake, as they are always there for sale. 

I can buy a nice little pony here, but it could not be 
sent safely by water. The sea is so rough when it 
blows strong from the north that the horses on board 
ship are almost always badly hurt. 



26 An Artillery Officer 

Tuesday, Feb. 2nd. 

The newspapers give you so regularly and con- 
stantly the last news from the Army, that it is hardly 
worth while for me to chronicle events as they tran- 
spire, or to detail rumors as they fly. Of rumors I 
am too old a campaigner to repeat one twentieth of 
what I hear. I shall generally give you only what 
I know, or believe to be true, or think very probable. 

This day has been peculiarly prolific in items of news 
— the most important is the fact of the stranding of 
a ship from New Orleans with Col. De Russy and four 
Compys. of the Louisiana Vols, on board. The ship 
is on shore thirty miles south of us. They saved most 
of their guns, their tents, provisions, etc. and all the 
men — one only was lost. Pack mules under an escort of 
Cavalry will be sent down for them to-morrow. 

Last evening some of the officers of the N. Y. Vols, 
came up to town — they left N. Y. Jany, 4th, and came 
here via Brazos, where they left Genl. Scott about five 
days since. Their orders are to go as far south as the 
Isles de Lobos, and anchoring, to remain till further 
orders. 

The anxiety increases daily in relation to Genl. 
Scott. All want to see him — because all think that 
Vera Cruz can be easily taken with the troops now here. 
Genl. Scott will not move till his plans are well matured, 
and will not strike a blow until he knows it will tell well. 
Great anxiety is entertained here by Genl. Scott's 
friends relative to a bill before Congress to make a 
Lt. Genl., as we know it is aimed at Genl. S. and designed 
to place some politician above him. If Genl. S. can 
take the field with a strong force, carry Vera Cruz, and 
compel its boasted Castle to surrender, and then estab- 
lish himself safely in the interior across the mountains, 



In Mexico 2^ 

before the arrival of the Lt. Genl., his being superseded 
will make him President, in spite of the manoeuvres of 
politicians. 

I rode this evening to the camp of Genl. Twiggs's 
Brigade, about two and one half miles from town. 
Their Camp is prettily situated on rolling ground, 
with a very pretty water prospect. The Officers say 
they cannot step into the woods outside without being 
covered with ticks. Say to the Genl. that his old friend 
Col. Riley desires to be particularly remembered to 
him. Maj. McKee, a relation of Mrs. Clinch's, also 
requested to be presented most warmly to the family. 
As I feel a little fatigued after my ride, I shall now bid 
you good-night. 

Wednesday, Feb. 3rd. 

Postmaster Perkins informs me that he expects to 
send a mail to the United States to-morrow. I shall 
then, instead of keeping this letter for another mail, 
close and send it by that mail. I am more anxious 
that you should hear from me by every opportunity 
now, as I fear that when we leave this place, it will 
be impossible for me to write as regularly as I now 
do, and that the chances of communication with 
New Orleans will be very much decreased. 

Not a line yet from my wife — as there has been no 
mail direct from New Orleans since my arrival, none 
could have arrived. And yet it is hard that just at 
this time when I am so anxious to get a letter, the 
mail should be so much behind. To-morrow will, I 
hope, bring us a vessel from New Orleans with the 
mail. Dr. Cuyler says that he hears from his wife 
more regularly than any one else here, because he has 
his letters sent under cover to Col. T. F. Hunt, Deputy 



28 An Artillery Officer 

Q. M. Genl., New Orleans. Mrs. C. pays the postage 
to New Orleans and Col. H. forwards them. Do try 
this plan; it may, and I hope will succeed with us. 
With a good Postmaster in New Orleans, there would 
be no use for any other than the ordinary direction 
on the letter, but he, it is said, has some inattentive 
persons in the office. 

We heard from the interior to-day, that about six 
hundred Mexicans were defeated near the Paso del 
Norte by four hundred of Genl. Kearney's troops. 
This you probably heard a week ago, as it is said to 
have taken place more than a month ago. We hear not 
a word about the doings of the Mexican Congress — their 
not acting precipitately augurs that they consider the 
question of peace or war one on which they will 
reflect — that they have not met with the determina- 
tion to prosecute it at all hazards. Nothing from 
Genl. Scott. An escort was sent down this morning 
with pack mules to Col. De Russy's command — they 
will join us in about four days. 

The band of the 4th Arty, is now playing your old 
favorite " Love not " — some musicians with the very in- 
struments to which we have listened together. What 
emotions throng to my heart — God grant that we may 
again enjoy — and now they are playing "Oft in the 
Stilly Night" — I can write no more till they have fin- 
ished. I think I can safely promise that this war being 
over, nothing save the most imperious necessity will ever 
separate me from my family except for short periods. 

Before closing, I may as well give you a little insight 
into my household arrangements. Behold me then 
seated before the old Company desk in my parlor of 
24 by 16 feet — the walls about 30 ft. high and 2 ft. 
thick, the piazza in front paved with marble. 



In Mexico 29 

Having described my parlor, I will enter no further into 
details about my drawing-room and bedroom, than to 
say that exactly the same description verbatim et litera- 
tim will answer for them. I am still messing with Doc- 
tors Harney and Cuyler one square from my Quarters. 
In a day or two we intend changing to a Frenchman 
who is said to keep a better table. I have not yet found 
a servant, though Dr. C. told me to-day of one who 
would go with me. Derr is attending to my few wants 
now — we get on very well. 

I must invite some friends to assist in eating the fine 
jar of oysters you made me bring. I opened my Mess 
chest to-day and found them in excellent order. I 
omitted mentioning in my last letters that the married 
men are well — indeed there are none but slight cases of 
indisposition in the Compy. The houses here have no 
fireplaces — the Mexicans you find sleeping under the 
piazzas, or in the open square every night, having 
merely wrapped themselves up in their blankets which 
they always wear, using their hats as pillows and at the 
same time covers to their heads. 

I omitted stating the other day that I had seen 
Maj. Buchanan; he commands the Baltimore Vols., 
who, they do say here, behaved most cowardly at 
Monterey; their Commander, Col. Watson — a brave 
man — was sixty yards ahead of his men when he fell. 
As I must put this letter in the mail to-night, I must 
now close. Give my love to all the family. 

No. 3. Tampico, Feb. 4th. 

Is it not too tantalizing, that a vessel has just arrived 

from New Orleans in seven days without having brought 

the mail. Not even a newspaper did the stupid dolt 

bring. He deserves not to hear from his family for a 



30 An Artillery Officer 

year. And to think that he might have brought me 
news from you as late as the 15th of last month! That 
is indeed a long time back, but still how delighted I 
should be to hear from you as late as that. I really 
am so much out of patience that I cannot write. But 
as I cannot omit writing a single evening whilst I can 
do so, you must make all excuses for me this evening. 

This day has been neariy barren of rumors and reports 
— the newsmongers seem to have exhausted all their 
powers of invention during the last two days. To-day I 
have been in company with some of the distinguished 
of the battle of Monterey, and am sorry to say that their 
want of modesty detracted very much from my estima- 
tion of their deeds. No one admires courage more than 
I do, but I always regret to hear the hero trumpeting his 
own fame — however weak the blast may be, it had 
better been left for other lungs to swell the strain. 

All agree, however, in representing Genl. Taylor as 
perfectly cool and collected during the fight — they say 
that he exposed himself unnecessarily — that he was 
frequently in the advance when he might have left the 
duty of reconnoitring to others. The Genl. preferred 
perhaps to look with his own eyes. Ampudia is repre- 
sented as both drunkard and coward. 

The band, it must be the 3rd, is now playing that 
medley you remember — "Some Love to Roam," "Love 
not," etc. They play better than I ever heard them. 
I can scarcely 'think it is our band, and yet in some parts 
the instruments sound very much like those of the 
3rd did in olden times at Fort Moultrie. Now they 
play the old American Museum tune. How well do I 
remember the many evenings you have heard those 
notes when we were so happy together. Memory is to 
me a very great blessing — with some sad thoughts, 



In Mexico 31 

she presents me many bright and happy ones. These 
continue through Hfe to present to me occasionally the 
panorama of Hfe's acts, and of my mind's thoughts and 
hopes. Good-night. I can write no more to-night. 

Feb. 5th. A mail from New Orleans, but bringing no 
letter from you — to-morrow it is said that we are to have 
a large mail left behind somewhere with later dates 
than those brought to-day. Then assuredly I shall hear 
from you — I shall indulge at all events in that sweet 
hope till the mail comes. I hear that Genl. Scott is 
to be here next week. On reflecting upon what may 
be the state of affairs at Vera Cruz I do not see why 
it may not be better to remain where we are until we 
can get a battery of heavy battering guns, a siege train 
— as it may be that we shall have good uses for it. 

The newspapers, months ago, stated that our friend 
Capt. Huger was to sail about the 1st of Jany. with one 
hundred men well instructed in the management of 
mortars and heavy howitzers, which he was to bring 
with him. He may perhaps be now to the south of us. 
No one can tell who is to remain as Governor of Tam- 
pico. As Col. Gates had the honor of landing the first 
detachments of troops here, it may be his ill fortune, 
but we hope that the 3rd will not be kept with him. 
As yesterday was pay day for the Compy. I have been 
pretty busy to-day settling accounts, sending off checks, 
etc. By the bye, I think it will probably be advisable 
for me to send some of my surplus funds to you. The 
amount will not be so large as to endanger your safety 
in keeping it — nor have I any very great fears of your 
becoming purse proud in consequence of its possession. 

Entre nous, I saw a letter of Genl. Worth's to-day, 
dated Nov. 23rd extolling Genl. Taylor in the highest 



32 An Artillery Officer 

manner. I have no doubt of Genl. T's richly deserving 
the encomium and hope Genl. W. may not, from a fit 
of passion, alter his opinions. That Genl. Scott will 
place Worth in every position where distinction can 
be won, I am sure, and I fear that this partiality may 
not be acceptable to others in the Army who will wish 
to share honors with the gallant — I presume we may 
now say — Major General. I find that I am encroaching 
on to-morrow's sheet. God bless you and keep you 
in happiness and in health. 

Feb. 6th. Another night and day have passed since 
we have talked together, and no mail has come with a 
letter from home — where you two are, is my heart's 
home. Dr. Cuyler and myself have talked so much 
to-day of our family feelings, as to make me, I fear, 
a very poor correspondent for my to-night's letter. 

Monday, Feb. 8th, g 130 a.m. 

Rumors have been received from several sources dur- 
ing yesterday and the day before, that the Mexicans were 
surrounding the Command of Col. De Russy, which I 
mentioned in my last letter as having been wrecked 
about thirty-five miles to the southward yesterday 
morning. Lt. Magruder was sent down to see what the 
Command was doing. After his departure reports were 
received to the effect that Col. De Russy was attacked 
by Genl. Coss and 980 men, and that Capt. Brooks, sent 
to him with supplies, was also engaged — that the attack 
commenced on the 4th and that so great was the dis- 
parity of the force (Col. De Russy having very few 
muskets, and no flints) that there was every probability 
that they had been captured or cut off by the Mexicans. 

Genl. Patterson about sunset last evening ordered two 



In Mexico 33 

Companies to embark. Col. Gates placed me in com- 
mand of the Companies selected and directed me to re- 
port to Genl. Patterson for orders. I called on him and 
received orders to proceed in an armed schooner down 
the coast to reconnoitre the position occupied by Col. 
De Russy, to afford him and the troops sent to his 
relief every assistance if they can be found — assuming, 
when I join them, the command of the Arty. Compys. (4). 
If I find no persons where the vessel was wrecked, I am 
to examine the ground to see if an engagement has taken 
place — then to proceed south to a small town, Tamagua, 
near the Islands, where our forces are to concentrate. 

We met on the bar this morning the steamboat 
which took Lt. Magruder down, and attempted to 
communicate with it, but failing to do so, and knowing 
how important it was that we should not go off on a 
wild goose chase, I determined to recross the bar, and 
dispatch an officer to Genl. Patterson, to mention the 
state of facts, and to ask his instructions. We are in 
fact better inside the bar than being at sea, as 
the wind is dead ahead and we should be drifted by 
the strong current to the north here. I expect the 
officer back in an hour — when I think it probable we 
shall be ordered to return to Tampico. 

My Compy. was not selected because of its con- 
taining so large a number of recruits. Poor fellows, 
many of them appeared very anxious to go. I will here 
stop until the return of Lt. Beckwith — the officer sent. 
Our cousin Lt. Anderson commands one of the Compys., 
and Lt. Wyse the other one on board this vessel — which 
is the schooner Ella now under the charge of Midship- 
man Smith. Midshipman Maury is with him. The 
two companies muster about 140 men — enough to whip 
500 Mexicans in fair fight. 



34 An Artillery Officer 

My own Quarters in Tampico, 8: 30 p.m. 

As I expected, Genl. Patterson sent orders for me to 
return with my Command ; on arriving I immediately 
reported to him at his Quarters, and gave him my 
reasons ; he approved of my course and directed me to 
order the companies to their quarters. 

The Genl.'s statement of the events reported to him 
by the officer who came up from Col. De Russy's troops 
is this. On Thursday Genl. Coss summoned Col. 
De R. to surrender — to the second note the Col. replied 
that he wanted till 9 o'clock the next morning to con- 
sider the demand. Night soon came on and early 
in the night the Col. took up the line of march leaving 
his tents standing, with candles burning in them. By 
daylight the next morning he had marched about twenty 
miles. He then met Lt. Miller with his party, and a 
few miles farther he received the Compys. under Lt. 
Magruder which were landed from the steamboat we 
met this morning on the Bar. He then felt himself 
so secure that he determined to report his position to 
Genl. Patterson who he thought might send him 
reinforcements sufficient to authorize his attacking 
Genl. Coss. This Genl. Patterson declines doing, as 
from the nature of the country the chances are that 
Genl. Coss would escape without the possibility of being 
caught by our troops. Col. De Russy has been ordered 
to join our forces. This ends this expedition. 

We expect soon to sail for Vera Cruz as we hear this 
evening that transports are arriving at Brazos from New 
Orleans. Those ordered to this place may be soon ex- 
pected. An officer of the Navy arrived this evening four 
days from Vera Cruz — he reports that there are only 4000 
troops in the City. You will see, I fear, before this 
reaches you, an account of my having been sent out oa 



In Mexico 35 

what will be called undoubtedly a perilous expedi- 
tion. You have all the facts above and will learn how 
to appreciate such reports. Editors must of course 
manufacture interesting paragraphs for their papers. 

Tuesday night, Feb. 9th. 

Col. De Russy and his Command arrived this after- 
noon. Nothing was seen of Genl. Coss after Col. De R. 's 
leaving his camp. No mail yet from New Orleans — it 
does seem that we are never to get a mail. Whilst I 
was absent the other day I looked forward to my return 
to Tampico with the greatest pleasure, because I 
hoped, till I was almost certain, that there would be a 
mail — that I should find a letter from you. You will 
nearly have received my first letters from this place 
and I have not received one of the many letters which 
I know you have written. It is too bad. 

We hear a rumor to-day that Genl. Santa Anna is 
marching all his forces to crush Genl. Taylor. It may 
be true but I do not credit the report. If he makes 
the attempt, although Genl. Taylor has not many 
Regulars with him, he will prove a very ugly customer, 
and again if he moves with all his forces to Monterey, 
he leaves the road to San Luis and the City of Mexico 
open to one part of the Army, and even success against 
Genl. Taylor — ^hardly a supposable thing — will not atone 
for the injury we shall inflict on him by cutting him 
off from the Capital, and our obtaining and securing 
possession of the tablelands, the garden of Mexico,^ 
where alone an Army can be subsisted in the Republic. 

Genl. Scott, who is still at the Brazos, will soon be 
informed of this movement of Santa Anna if it be made, 
and will at once give Genl. Taylor such additional re- 
inforcements as to secure him in his possession. We 



36 An Artillery Officer 

must not suffer any reverses in this war. Not a man 
must be surrendered to the Mexicans. Fortunate was 
it for us that an ex-Army officer was in command of 
the wrecked Louisianians, as a raw volunteer would have 
been very likely to have surrendered under similar cir- 
cumstances — at least he would not have thought of es- 
caping by a ruse. How foolish Genl. Coss must have 
felt on approaching the empty tents! 

I was introduced this afternoon to Col. Jackson of the 
Georgia troops. He is said to be one of the best of the 
Volunteer Officers in the Army. Col. Baker, member 
of Congress from' Illinois, was pointed out last night 
to me — I saw him seated in a crowd — he looked like a 
regular electioneering hero. I did not think so highly 
of his speech in Congress, just before his leaving 
Washington, as many of his Volunteer friends do. 
Regular vote-asking — praising the Volunteers to the 
skies. Nearly all the Volunteers are encamped on a 
very extensive plain just below the City where they 
have room enough to drill. It is a level piece of land, 
overflowed in the Spring, extending about two miles 
along the river bank, and from a quarter to a mile broad. 
Having obtained some few articles of clothing for the 
"G's, " I am just beginning to take them out of the 
yard. To-day I marched them down to the plain, 
where I gave them a good drill. 

Extremely desirous of not missing the mail, I will now 
close begging to be remembered most affectionately to 
Genl. C. and all at home. That our Heavenly Father 
will secure your present and eternal happiness and 
soon restore me to you is my constant prayer. 

No. 4. Tampico, Feb. 10, 1847. 
No boat can come, nor can any boat go, during the 



In Mexico 37 

time when the "Northers" are blowing here, and vessels 
that are at anchor outside the bar, at the mouth of the 
river, have frequently to get under sail in so great a 
hurry that they have not time to raise their anchors. 
These high winds do not generally continue, the 
residents say, longer than the middle of this month. 

No news has been received to-day from any quarter. 
I saw Col. De Russy to-day, but had no time for con- 
versation with him ; he looks very well. The Mississippi 
troops, reported to be suffering very severely from a 
malignant dysentery, who were off the bar yesterday, 
must have been blown to sea by the storm. 

I shall send you by mail a No. of the Tampico 
Sentinel. It is conducted by one of the Editors Lums- 
den, of the New Orleans Picayune. You will find men- 
tion made of some movements alluded to in my letters, 
and full accounts of some particulars to which I have 
not alluded. In fact the Editor has to make the most 
of the few incidents which happen in our midst, where 
nothing is done but "drill" and look out for the mail. 

To-day I have been engaged as President of a Court 
trying some soldiers. The big Sergeant, as you used 
to call him, was before us. He could not resist temp- 
tation and took one more than the authorized frolic. 
I overlooked the first frolic all, or nearly all, had on 
landing. I find my military frock so warm that I am 
getting another drap-d'-ete one made. A franco- 
espagnol mulatto promises to make me one that will fit 
me well. 

My old friend Dr. Harney was quite unwell last 
night; he feels better to-day, but I fear he may have a 
very bad time — a severe fit of sickness. The Dr. has 
reached that period of life when the constitution has 
frequently a severe struggle with the arch enemy. Dr. 



38 An Artillery Officer 

Wright says that if the Dr. survives this attack the 
chances are that he will be in feeble health for about a 
year, and that then he will enjoy a green old age. 
The Drs. are making arrangements to establish a Mess, 
and Dr. Harney insists upon my living with them as a 
guest. I told him that he must let me pay my portion 
of the Mess bill, and that I would join them with 
pleasure. 

Genl. Scott will not, I presume, allow us to mess 
here much longer. What would I not give to know 
that at this moment you were well. With how much 
more alacrity and zeal could I attend to my duties, 
had I but that knowledge daily ! My men, even, must 
find me much changed, and I expect wish you were 
here as I am much more rigid with them than I was at 
Tampa. God grant that this ill-fated war may soon 
be closed and that I may again see my wife. Good- 
night. 

Feb. nth. 

The wind has abated, but the waves are so high that 
boats can neither come in nor go out. I fear that 
there will be no possible chance of a mail's coming in 
before Sunday. If one comes I must certainly hear 
from you. Major Whiting found a letter here from 
Mrs. W. — she writes, he tells me, in fine spirits. The 
Major will soon break down — his Command are in 
tents — ^he is quartered in town. 

I went to the Coiurt House for the first time this 
morning to hear Col. Baker of Illinois, M. C, and Col. 
Jackson of Savannah. Col. B. is acting as Prosecuting 
Attorney, and Col. J. appears for the prisoner — an 
American arraigned for the murder of another Ameri- 
can. The Georgia gentleman is not sufficiently cool 



In Mexico 39 

for his antagonist, who is very calm, and a much abler 
man in debate. The Court is composed of three Amer- 
ican citizens, and has been organized by the order of 
Genl. Shields whilst in command here for the trial of 
all civil and criminal offences. I am not sufficiently 
conversant with the "custom of war in like cases," con- 
sequently am not quite certain if the Comdg. Genl. is 
vested properly with any authority to constitute 
Courts, appoint judges, etc. The question may be 
brought before Congress. I do not think, if they find 
the man guilty, they can venture to hang him. The 
Court must feel morally certain that they are legally 
authorized to act, or in case of the reverse, they would 
be guilty of murder were they to have the man hung. 
It is now cold enough for a fire — if it continues as cold 
to-morrow, I must piurchase an earthen pot, and have 
a charcoal fire in my quarters. We have a report to- 
day that Santa Anna has been declared Dictator. This 
can hardly be true as the people are already disaffected, 
it is said, towards him and he is too shrewd to risk 
popularity of so high-handed a measure. Having en- 
croached on my to-morrow's page, I will now bid you 
good-night. 

Friday night, 12th. 
To-day the weather has been uncomfortably cold — 
sufficiently so to make sitting by a fire very comfortable. 
I have spent the greater part of the afternoon with 
my friends the Doctors, where there is the only fire- 
place I have seen in Tampico. This cold weather 
reconciles me to my position in the City. I have, 
ever since my arrival, been urging the Adjt. to 
induce Genl. Shields to send me into one of the camps. 
Last night and to-day I feel exceedingly grateful for 



40 An Artillery Officer 

the privilege of being in comfortable quarters, and 
subscribe that what is, is for the best, is very good 
doctrine. 

We hear to-day of the capture of Capt. Cassius M. 
Clay and his Company of Cavalry by the Mexicans. 
Capt. Clay had seventy, the Mexicans were said to 
have been 1 500 strong. The newspapers will doubtless 
give you more particulars than we have now, as it 
reaches us through the Mexican papers. Per contra, our 
troops to-day have captured 500 head of cattle. They 
are still greatly in our debt, and we will soon, we hope, 
balance the account. 

The august Court of Tampico, Chief Justice Capers, 
ex-Sutler 8th Infy., and Associate Justice Lumsden of 
the Picayune are engaged in trying a Mexican for 
the murder of the American mentioned in my yester- 
day's letter. The American first arraigned for the 
murder is to be tried as an accessory to the murder 
if the Mexican is convicted, as it is said that he got the 
Mexican to kill him. Col. Baker appeared as pro- 
secutor in the case of the Mexican, and the jury 
(probably the first one impanelled in Mexico) will, I 
think, find the man guilty. The jury is composed of 
American citizens. I am sorry they did not give him 
a jury consisting in part of his own countrymen. It 
would have a better appearance. It would have been 
well to have associated one of the Alcaldes with our 
Judges. The Mexicans were watching the trial with 
great interest. 

To-morrow we are to commence Messing. Dr. 
Harney and I are to look in at the market occasionally 
to see that the servants do not cheat us too much in 
the prices. The Dr. is much better, but says that he 
will take another dose of calomel to-night. 



In Mexico 41 

My letter No. 3, was, I am told, sent on board a 
vessel which went down to the mouth of the river this 
morning. I fear, however, that the bar has been too 
rough for any vessel to go out, and that it will be de- 
layed one day longer in reaching you. I think I shall 
venture some more Treasury Notes in this letter. I 
may be robbed some day or night when I am out of my 
Quarters, and the chances of their being lost in being 
sent by letter are so few that I think it best to send 
them. Others I find are doing the same thing. Were 
I certain that Col. Andrews or any other Paymaster 
is to remain at Charleston, I would send on my pay 
accounts, as the safest way of sending funds; but Col. 
Andrews may by this time be under orders for the Army. 

Good-night. 

Saturday, 13th. 

Another long, long day and no mail. A vessel 
came in from Baltimore, but brings us nothing 
later than papers to the 19th Jany. We are indeed out 
of the U. S. Tampa Bay we used to consider far enough 
out of the U. S. — so far out that the mail was exceedingly 
irregular, but this is rather worse. To be sure I was 
not quite so deeply interested in the arrivals of the mail 
there as I am here. 

To-night there is every appearance of a Norther; 
should it come on to-morrow, we may not have a mail 
for three days. I will however indulge in the hope that 
we shall be made happy on to-morrow by hearing good 
news from our families. How truly will it be a day of 
rejoicing to me if I receive one of your letters telling 
me of your safe arrival at the Refuge^ and saying that 

' Genl. Clinch's plantation. General Clinch's wife's father, John 
Houstoun Mackintosh, owned Ft. George Island, near the mouth of 



42 An Artillery Officer 

you were well and in good spirits about me. I shall do 
admirably well if I can only hear from you now and then 
and know that you are well. 

Sunday night. 

Thank God the mail brought me to-day a letter 
from you. It was your letter from the Withlacoochee 
bearing the Tampa Bay postmark of Jany. 19th. I had 
hoped to receive a letter from you after your arrival at 
the Refuge. But I am thankful, very thankful, for this 
one. The few words you wrote about yourself present 
in the strongest light what I knew would be your suf- 
ferings. I pray Heaven that you may have been saved 
from sickness and great suffering — which your grief 
and exhaustion were so well calculated to produce. 

Dr. Cuyler received by this mail letters from his wife, 
dated 31st Jany. Assuredly I must receive two letters 
from you by the next mail. I received by a gentleman 
from Brazos a letter from Genl. Scott, which I intended 
enclosing to Father, but as I may have good use for it 
here, it will be better for me to send an epitome of its 
contents, which will show how wisely Genl. Scott had 
made his arrangements, with how great forethought 
he acted, and how cruelly his plans have been thwarted 
by delays. 

The Secretary of War on Genl. Scott's requisition 
ordered in Dec. ten large transports to be sent in 
ballast ; nothing has been heard of them. Genl. Jesup 
went on the 3rd Jany. to New Orleans to take up ships, 
etc. On the 22nd he had chartered almost enough for 

the St. John's River, Florida. During the Spanish troubles Mr. Mack- 
intosh removed his family and slaves to a tract of land on the St. 
Mary's River, Georgia, and called the new home the " Refuge." This 
tract was a grant from the Crown to his mother's father. Sir Patrick 
Houstoun, President of His Majesty's Council of Georgia. 



In Mexico 43 

8000 men and 1200 Arty, and Cavalry horses. They 
were to have left New Orleans on the 24th ; but the time 
necessary to make extra water casks, the sailors striving 
for higher wages, and finally a fog which lasted for one 
week have so delayed them that only one had reached 
the Brazos on the nth inst. Of the heavy supplies 
of Ord. and Ordnance Stores ordered, only a small 
part has been heard of. Was ever such ill fortune! 

The Genl. will leave Brazos as soon as the transports 
or most of them come up. He will stop here only a day 
or two and will hasten to Lobos, etc. We must make an 
attack on Vera Cruz in a few weeks, or abandon it 
until Oct. or Nov. Healthy portions may be found 
in the interior, sufficiently near to haul our supplies 
from this place. Col. Bankhead arrived to-day — he 
looks very well — we, or at least many, think that he 
will be the Milty. Governor of this place instead of 
Col. Gates. I think this will be entirely as Col. 
Bankhead wishes — he is an old friend and favorite of 
Genl. Scott's. Gates is neither the one nor the other. 
As I must reserve some space for another day's memo- 
randa I will now close. 

Monday night, 15th. 

I have just been informed that a mail will be closed 
early to-night to go in the morning. As it is uncertain 
when another one will be sent, and as I am determined 
that you shall have a chance of hearing from me by 
every mail, I have determined though there be no stir- 
ring incidents to season my epistle, to close and send 
this letter. 

This day has given us no news. Col. Bankhead 
assumed command of the Regt. to-day without taking 
command of the City. This looks a little like a dis- 



44 An Artillery Officer 

inclination on his part to interfere with Col. Gates 
in his Gubernatorial capacity. Genl. Scott will pro- 
bably leave the selection of the Officer to be left in 
command here to Genl. Patterson. I hope that Genl. 
Scott will take all the Regulars with him leaving some 
1500 Volunteers here. 

A ship is reported off the Bar this evening; whether it 
be one of the delayed transports or one of the ships 
containing the Mississippi or the New York Volun- 
teers, we know not. I did not mention among the 
other items of Genl. Scott's bad luck, the fact that 
the Mississippi Volunteers, which were ordered to the 
Brazos for Genl. Taylor's Division of the Army, have 
come down here! Genl. S. is now doubtless expecting 
them at the Brazos. 

Major Kirby is to join Genl. Scott as he passes this 
place. Whether he will be with him merely as the 
Senior Paymaster- General or that he is to serve in some 
other capacity on the Staff, I know not. Kirby, if 
he be sincerely attached (which I hope is the case) to 
Genl. Scott, will be a very good adviser. He is a 
prudent man, and prudence is always a virtue in the 
Staff of a man like Genl. Scott, whose indignation, 
though justly excited, may sometimes lead him. to 
express himself too harshly. Maj. Van Buren is with 
the Genl. I don't think much of him as an adviser. 
You know the Major however as well as I do; a very 
amiable gentleman. I hope that Capt. De Hart may 
be in the General's Staff. He has a very rough and 
unpleasantly independent way of speaking sometimes 
to the Genl., and this frequently vexes him: but his 
business habits, his acquaintance with details, and his 
attachment to the Genl. render him a very valuable 
man to him. Genl. Scott should now have men around 



In Mexico 45 

him who will at the risk of incurring for a time his 
displeasure, speak the truth fully and freely to him. 
His magnanimity will always cause him to make 
promptly the Amende honorable when he has been 
vexed by a person's not agreeing with him, and he 
will esteem them all the more for it. Of one thing I 
am certain, as I said in a former letter — one Campaign 
with this Army will give Genl. Scott a popularity 
which he has not at present. The Army has been 
lying idle here so long, that the croakers are busily 
at work; a little active service will send this gentry 
into their dens again. 

No. 5. Tampico, 
Tuesday, i6th. 

I mailed a letter to you in a very great hurry, and 
hear this evening that the mail was not sent, and what 
is more vexatious that none will be sent to-morrow. 
I shall however commence and continue this, as though 
the other were off, and may probably send both under 
one envelope should no mail leave before I finish this. 

Col. Bankhead assumed command to-day, and the 
first act of his administration was to order his prede- 
cessor into Camp with our two companies ; so that this 
is probably the last letter I shall write you from quar- 
ters in Tampico. I do not know the position of the 
site selected for our Camp, but hear that it is a pleas- 
ant and healthy one. We shall be about three quarters 
of a mile from where I am now quartered. The Camp 
will be composed of the three Companies of the 3rd 
Arty, now here, viz. — "G" Co. and the Companies 
commanded by Lieutenants Steptoe and Wyse. 

The probabilities are in favor of our being moved 
again in a few days, as we learn that the transports are 
rendezvousing rapidly at the Lobos Islands, a vessel 



46 An Artillery Officer 

which arrived this afternoon reports fifteen large ships 
at anchor there, and that she met four others on her 
way up. The inference is then certainly fair, that 
those ordered to this place may very soon arrive. 

The important point now discussed is what troops 
are to remain. The general impression seems to be 
that Col. Gates is to be left. Nous verrons. 

Among the rumors of the day, credited by some 
knowing ones, is an old one revived; that the com- 
mandant at Vera Cruz has received instructions from 
Santa Anna to evacuate the place, on the arrival 
before it of our Army, as was done here. This comes 
from a Mexican lady of this place, I would not be 
astonished if it was done, if we go there with a heavy 
battery (without which we ought not to approach 
the place) and a well organized force. 

Genl. Scott, I am confident, feels the full importance 
of entire success, and will not nm the risk of a failure. 
His enemies are on the watch; his friends are keenly 
and sensitively alive and will leave nothing unat- 
tempted in their power to ensure success. 

Tattoo call has just beat; and it is time for me to 
visit the Theatre. I have, I believe, omitted telling you 
that among the duties of the Officer of the Day, are those 
of going to the Theatre, the Fandangoes, and all places 
of amusement. Such a collection as I saw at the only 
Fandango I have attended you can not conceive of — 
from the Vol. Colonel to the drunken private soldier 
and the black Mexicanesses — I soon became disgusted, 
but had to remain for fear of a row, to close it. The 
Theatre is filled with noisy Volunteers some of whom 
are taken away from their frolics there every night 
and given a place on the floor of our filthy guardhouse. 
At all places of amusement are found sentinels with 




GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT 



In Mexico 47 

their fixed bayonets; they are even on the ballroom 
floor. And this is necessary to keep our free and 
independent citizens in order! Good-night, it will be so 
late when I return, that I can write no more to-night. 

Wednesday night, 17th. 

I am now writing from camp, having vacated my 
quarters in town at 4.30 this evening. Mr. Wyse came 
in when I had finished the last sentence to talk about 
the chance of our remaining here. It seems that the 
question has been discussed to-day, and he says that 
Col. Gates and our two companies will form a portion 
of the garrison. Genl. Scott may change the arrange- 
ments entered into by the gentlemen here. I shall 
therefore give myself very little trouble about the 
affair. 

I saw to-day Genl. Twiggs's Brigade drilling on the 
plain near our camp. I never saw so many Regulars 
together: there were about 1400 men; of the Rifles, 
1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 7th Infantry. They made a very 
respectable display; the day was intensely warm and 
two or three of the men fainted in the ranks. 

Of rumors we have a full budget — one, that Genl. 
Taylor has had a fight with and whipped Genl. Santa 
Anna; a second report says that Santa Anna can not 
raise money to organize an Army, and that Vera Cruz 
will certainly be abandoned on our approach. Nous 
verrons. As I am not yet well arranged for writing, 
I will here finish — wishing you good-night ; the discord- 
ance of two camps beating tattoo at the same time 
makes not a very pleasant music. 

Thursday, Feb. i8th. 
We are now comfortably fixed in our Camp which 



48 An Artillery Officer 

has been well and thoroughly policed. I find that I 
am too far from my own Mess in town to continue a 
member of it; I shall therefore organize a Mess to- 
morrow in camp. I brought, you know, all the furni- 
ture, etc., necessary for this purpose. Finding, how- 
ever, that my pewter is not quite genteel enough for a 
Tampico Mess, where we greatly profess gentility, I 
went to the heavy expense of 75 cts. for a china bowl 
and plate. The pattern is a very pretty one, as you 
may see some day from the fragments. I have not 
succeeded in finding any curiosities or rarities which 
I thought worth procuring and keeping for you. 

When in town this morning, I called to see Maj. 
McCall, Genl. Patterson's Adjt. Genl., in consequence 
of Mr. Wyse's conversation with me last night, and 
asked him whether the designation of the companies 
to remain here was made by him or by Genl. Scott's 
Adjt. Genl. He said that Genl. Scott would designate 
the garrison. Thus falls to the ground the castles 
which our knowing ones have been building for their 
friends during the last few days. 

We had a report this morning that Capt. Huger was 
off the bar to-day. I could not trace the report to a 
reliable source, though I thought it might well be so. 
He must have been under orders in Dec. or Jany. ; and 
should have arrived before this time. Genl. Scott 
will be here at 7.30 to-morrow. 

Why does not Congress act on the Army Bills; the 
President's earnest recommendations have not been 
acquiesced in. It is highly important that Genl. 
Scott should have the ten Regiments of Regulars so 
strongly recommended by the Secretary of War, at 
the earliest moment, and yet, at our latest advices 
from Washington, they were gravely discussing the 



In Mexico 49 

question of giving Volunteers in place of Regulars. 
Had Congress been serious in desiring to prosecute the 
War vigorously, they would have passed the Bill pro- 
posed, or some other for increasing the Army, in the 
first two weeks of its Session, and some of the Regts. 
might have been now in the field. Now the passage 
of any Bill augmenting the Army can do no good until 
next winter. Our armies are not sufficiently strong 
for invasion; we may occupy the seaport towns and 
healthy positions near them, but can not throw our 
forces far into the interior. 

I learn to-day from a very reliable source that there 
is much bitter feeling between the Volunteer Generals. 
I fear that this feeling may be extended by them 
towards Genl. Scott, who comes to an army, I am 
sorry to say it, strongly prejudiced against him. Bragg 
in the Arty, and Lt. Don Carlos Buell in the Infy., or, 
at least, Genl. Scott's action in their cases, have had 
much weight in producing this feeling. You can 
readily conceive the anxiety I feel on this account. 
I am apprehensive that the prejudice is so strong as 
to mislead many honorable men, who can not give 
his acts a fair trial. Once in a campaign and in a 
glorious action, and all must be, will be, right — envy 
and malice will [not] then be so powerful to injure as 
now, and the very men who now dare to speak slight- 
ingly, and disrespectfully of him, will be loudest and 
most fulsome in his adulation. 

I hear to-night that a mail from New Orleans will 
leave early in the morning, and as I am not now so 
near the Post Office as when in town, I will not be 
able to spoil this letter by cross writing. Mr. Wyse 
promised to call for my letter after tattoo, and as the 
call has beat, I must now close. 



50 An Artillery Officer 

No. 6. In Camp, Tampico 
Sat., Feb. 20th. 

Thank God I have at last received letters from you. 
Yours of the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 29th, Jany. were 
received yesterday morning. With what gratitude do 
I thank our Heavenly Father for having restored you 
to health. And you have suffered so severely, my poor 
wife. What wou d have become of you had you been 
among strangers, worn out by worrying about me? 
Now I feel that you are surrounded by those whose 
love and affection will anticipate all your wishes, 
whose devotion encircles you with care and atten- 
tions which strangers would never think of, and 
which in the sick room are so much needed, so highly 
appreciated. Is it not true that in this case all was 
ordered for the best? I will not ask you to thank 
all the family, the attentions of each of whom 
have been so warmly dwelt upon in your letters — this 
would be too cold and formal. But I do thank God 
for having given us relations with hearts so warm and 
so true. 

I will not attempt to state the feelings which per- 
vaded my heart when I read your most, most welcome 
letters. How often did I have to stop reading — some 
sentiment of yours brought you before me so plainly, 
and yet so far are we separated, and so much un- 
certainty is there about the time of our meeting again. 
God will, I know, continue to protect and bless you. 

As my scribble on the side of No. 5 indicated, Genl. 
Scott was that night off the bar, and arrived yesterday 
morning. He was received and escorted to his quar- 
ters by four companies of Arty. ; Capt. Wm. McKenzie, 
Commander, Capt. A. Compy., the right Compy. 
The Genl. looked, on arriving, somewhat worried; 



In Mexico 5i 

he went off this afternoon, I think, in better spirits. 
He issued yesterday his Orders naming his Staff 
Officers, and declaring Martial Law to prevail wherever 
any part of the Army might be. I send a copy of the 
newspaper containing them. 

I met many of my old friends — Major Smith, Engin- 
eers Col. Totten, Capt. C, F. Smith, Capt. Joe Johnson, 
Lt. Scott, A. D. C, Capt. Swartwout, A.D.C. Williams, 
etc., etc., etc. All are in fine spirits. I have not 
mentioned my old friend Capt. Huger, who dined with 
me to-day on "Armadillo" and other nice dishes. 
He has brought out the heavy Ordnance, the arrival 
of which has been so anxiously hoped for. Col. Gates 
will remain here with one compy. of Arty, and 1200 
Volunteers. Col. De Russy has been ordered to 
remain with the Louisiana Volunteers; this is a bitter 
pill for them to swallow. I saw very little of Genl. 
Scott; knowing how busy he would be, I purposely 
avoided going near him. He enquired most affec- 
tionately about Father and the family; says that the 
Genl. owes him two letters. I wish you would 
ask Father to write to him, directing to the care of 
Col. Hunt, who will forward it. Having largely tres- 
passed on my to-morrow's pages, I will now bid you 
good-night. God bless you. 

Sunday, 21st. 
The Norther which raged last night with considerable 
force, must have carried Genl. Scott down to Lobes 
early to-day ; he is, I suppose, safely anchored there to- 
night. Last night reminded me of some of the stormy 
nights we had at Tampa Bay. Luckily the Sentinels 
of our Camp are not far from each other, and it did 
not take me long to visit them. I took advantage 



52 An Artillery Officer 

of a lull, and paid my visit rapidly between two showers. 
To-night the wind is pretty high, but there is no rain. 

I have this evening distressed Lt. Judd by telling 
him that I intended applying for him to join my 
Compy. He has just succeeded in having Lt. Step- 
toe's Compy. organized as a Compy. of Foot Artillery, 
and it will go hard with him to have to leave it, but 
I must now have all the officers who properly belong to 
it, if I can get them. Col. Gates said this evening 
that he would order him to the Compy., but he may 
change his mind to-morrow. 

An English gentleman of high character informed 
us last night that he had received advices from Mexico 
to the 13th inst. stating that a bearer of dispatches 
had been sent by our Govt, to the Mexican; the nature 
of the communication was not known. It is said 
that the bearer of the dispatches is a Mexican, who 
has been during the last year in some official cor- 
respondence with our Secy, of State, and who has 
constantly taken the groimd that a peace might be 
honorably adjusted by the two Govts. News from San 
Luis Potosi to the 7th was also received by Mr. White- 
head, which represents that Santa Anna has advanced 
50 leagues towards Genl. Taylor and that he had then 
halted, having learned that the Genl. was stronger than 
he believed him to be. Information also states that the 
Mexican Congress has informed Santa Anna that no 
money can be raised for him, that he must subsist his 
army as best he can. Before this reaches you, you 
will have heard whether these rumors are confirmed. 

Genl. Twiggs's Brigade will commence embarking 
as soon as the bar becomes quiet enough for them to 
cross. It will be succeeded by the other troops as 
rapidly as they can be got off. A large steamboat 



In Mexico 53 

was reported off the bar this afternoon; it is supposed 
to be the Alabama from New Orleans. She has 
probably run out to sea again ; and will, I hope, return 
to-morrow, and give us a mail with later news from my 
wife. I must leave a little space for to-morrow on this 
side. That our Heavenly Father may protect and 
guard you, and soon restore me to you is my earnest, 
my constant prayer. Good-night. The Taps have 
just been given. 

Monday, 22nd. 

Washington's Birthday. I am, with my company, 
in the City to-day guarding the City. Col. Bankhead 
showed me the order of Genl. Patterson directing the 
Arty, companies to be embarked next after Genl. 
Twiggs's Brigade, which will, I suppose, commence its 
removal to-morrow. The steamer reported off the 
bar yesterday has not yet come in. She is thought to 
be the Alabama. 

Of news we have nothing to-day. I am seated in 
Dr. Harney's parlor, with the Dr. in front of me on 
the sofa. Lt. Beckwith, 3rd. Arty., is on my left, and 
Lt. Van Vliet is walking across the room; — as they 
are talking I find that I shall have to defer my writing 
till I can steal a more favorable moment, when I shall 
resume and finish to-night, and mail will go to-morrow. 

9.30 P.M., Monday. 
I had intended writing you a good long letter, but 
as Officer of the Day, I shall have so much to do that 
I shall have to content myself with this letter with 
a slight addition to it. It will be useless for me to 
keep it out of the Post Office to-night for the chance of 
the mail's not going off until the afternoon of to-morrow, 



54 An Artillery Officer 

as I learn that I am named as Judge Advocate and 
Recorder to a Military Commission to try a Mexican 
Spy to-morrow. 

This is the first Board organized under Genl. Scott's 
order declaring Martial Law. The Commission is 
composed of Col. Bankhead, Col. Gates, Col. Campbell, 
Tenn. Vols., Lt. Col. Belton, and another Vol. Officer. I 
regret exceedingly being placed on the Commission, 
as it is a question which will attract much attention, 
and should be managed by an officer of much more 
experience and talents than myself. Capt. De Hart 
should have been sent here to act on the Court. 

I do not think that the Prosecuting Officer will be 
able to sustain the charge, as I can not conceive the 
necessity for the Mexican General having sent a spy 
to this city, whose inhabitants are in daily communica- 
tion with their friends in the Army and elsewhere. Again 
it may be apprehended that if he be found guilty and 
executed under our sentence, the Mexicans may cause 
Lt. Rodgers of the Navy, a prisoner in Vera Cruz, 
to share the same fate. Joaquim Nogales, our pris- 
oner, is said to be a Sergeant in Genl. Urea's part 
of the Army, and was apprehended by Major Morris, 
who prefers the Charges. 

I shall not be able to send you by this mail the copy 
of Genl. Scott's order which I intended sending. You 
will find a copy in the next newspaper which I send. 
Maj. McCall has just sent me word that he wants 
to see me, and I must go over. — I have just returned ; 
he gave me the order detailing the Military Com- 
mission and the charges against Nogales. They are 
hardly strong enough to convict him of being a spy. 
I must study the case. Good-night, may our Heavenly 
Father bless you. 



In Mexico 55 

No. 7. Tampico. 
Wednesday, Feb. 24. 

As I was engaged yesterday on the first "Military 
Commission," I did not feel like writing at night, and 
retired at early candle light. This morning I received 
orders to prepare my Compy. for embarkation, and 
as I have much to think of and to arrange to-night, 
as we embark early to-morrow, I fear that my last 
letter from Tampico must necessarily be a short one. 

Before commencing my daily narrative of events, 
rumors, etc., since the close of my last, I may as well 
tell how near I was being kept here by Col. Gates. My 
last mentioned that the Col. was to remain here with 
one Compy. of his Regt. This decision was made 
the day Genl. Scott left. That morning, Adjt. Austine 
informed me that Col. G. had selected me. I immedi- 
ately went to his Quarters and asked him if that was so. 
He answered me in the affirmative, said that he had 
been treated with great discourtesy in being separated 
from his Regt., and that, saying divers complimentary 
things, he had selected me to remain with him. I 
stated that, from the relations which had always 
existed between us, I knew that he would not mis- 
understand me, when I informed him that I would 
appeal from his decision; that as the ranking officer 
of those in command of Companies of the 3rd Regt. 
here, I claimed that I was entitled to be first sent on 
armed service. He said that there would be no 
misunderstanding between us. 

I left him, and had barely seated myself to write my 
appeal, when Col. Bankhead's orderly came in and 
said that Col. B. wished to see me, at his Quarters. 
I went, when he informed me that it was strange that 
Col. Gates had misunderstood him: that he had in- 



56 An Artillery Officer 

formed him as plainly as he could speak the English 
language that he, Col. B. would, to prevent any heart- 
burnings between him and his officers, make the 
selection. He then said, that next to the officers of 
his own Regt., he would rather have me with him than 
any one else. And wound up by stating that he would 
not make the selection till Genl. Scott left. 

Immediately on Genl. Scott's leaving, he informed 
Mr. Wyse that his Compy. would remain. Col. 
Bankhead told Col. Gates subsequently, that Genl. 
Scott had said that he wanted me in the trenches 
with him. 

So much for being too popular. I have made a very 
narrow escape. There is so much in the preceding 
which would not be written to any one else but yourself, 
as it looks exceedingly like egotism, that I hope you 
will not read or let it be read by any one. 

The Company is to embark in a very fine sailer with 
accommodations for about thirty men more than the 
company musters. I have to leave "Ruh" in the 
Hospital here. He was shot accidentally in the calf 
of his leg, by a revolver in the hands of one of Mr. 
Wyse's Compy. and will not be able to go with us. 
I must have him sent on to join me as soon as he gets 
sufficiently well. Mr. Judd has managed to keep 
from joining the Compy., as he prefers remaining 
with' Mr. Steptoe whose Compy. he managed to have 
converted into a battery of Foot Artillery. But I 
think, as he has not been transferred from the Compy. 
I will get him back as soon as I get to Genl. Scott's 
Headquarters. 

And now about the grand "Military Commission" 
which met yesterday to try the spy. On the assembling 
of the Court, after a few remarks, the names of the 



In Mexico 57 

members were called, when, before the prisoner was 
brought in, I presented the question as to our com- 
petency to try a spy, and stated that we were debarred 
from doing so by Genl. Scott's order, and by the Rules 
and Articles of War, which declare that spies shall be 
tried by Genl. Courts-Martial. The question was put 
— the objection sustained — when I wrote a letter com- 
municating the fact to Genl. Patterson; the moment 
I explained the grounds of our decision, he stated that 
we were right, and informed me that he would have an 
order issued dissolving the Commission. Thus was I 
relieved from a most im welcome and troublesome task. 
The fates are decidedly in my favor — I ask pardon, I 
am no fatalist, even in jest, and firmly believe that the 
Great God orders all events. He speaks to us whether 
in the gentle zephyr or in the raging storm. 

Adjutant Austine goes with us. Col. Gates was 
quite angry when Mr. A. told him he must go; but 
afterwards consented. The Col. keeps the band; we 
take the Colors, and the Adjt., Col. Childs, and Capt. 
Vinton will be with us. 

We have rumors again that a messenger has been 
sent to the Mexican Govt, with an offer to take north 
of a line running through Matamoros, to embrace a 
part of California, Santa Fe, etc. ; and that we will give 
her twenty millions from which the claims of our 
citizens on her Govt, are to be discounted. These 
terms do not appear to me very liberal. Whether the 
Mexicans will accept, no one knows. I believe that 
the Govt, at Washington would do any honorable 
thing — may be that word is too short — to prevent 
Genl. Scott from conquering a peace. We will see. 

Friend Derr and I get on very well together. He 
goes on guard with me when I am Officer of the Day, 



58 An Artillery Officer 

and does not therefore miss any of his duties. I will 
reserve a little space for to-morrow morning, when, if 
possible, I will add a few words more. Good-night, 
my wife. Good-night. 

February 25th. 
My Compy. is now on board, and I am waiting for 
the return of the lighter to go on board. Col. Belton 
and Lt. Andrews are the only officers who go in the 
same vessel. The wind is now ahead, and it seems 
doubtful whether we shall leave to-night or not; it is 
now 2.30 o'clock. Genl. Patterson will, it is said, 
leave the day after to-morrow in the steamboat Ala- 
bama. For safety and the chance of making snug 
harbors I prefer our little schooner, the Regina Hill. I 
intended sending another trio of drafts, but as I am 
separated from my baggage, I cannot. 

No. 8. Tampico, 

February 27th, Saturday. 
It appears now, my wife, that my last, very hurried 
letter might have been finished at my leisure. A 
Norther was brewing as we went on board, and yester- 
day morning the breakers were so high on the bar that 
no vessels went out. The wind is now lulling and it is 
probable that the gallant little barque will sail to- 
morrow. I very innocently came up to see my friends 
the Doctors on Thursday night, as I thought a night on 
shore would be better for me than one on board, but 
they refused to let me return, and here I am separated 
from the Company by a cold. They have given me no 
medicine but one dose of magnesia; but say that I 
shall not expose myself by imnecessarily accompanying 
the command in a small vessel without medical atten- 



In Mexico 59 

dance, when they can take me with them in the steamer 
Alabama, which, leaving to-morrow, or the next day, 
will reach Lobos before the Regina Hill. 

My cough is less violent than when I left the vessel. 
You know that generally I am very little affected by 
colds, recovering frequently from those that are very 
severe in one night. I have no pains or aches, simply 
a cough, and hope that with a change of weather I 
shall be again well enough to rejoin and go down with 
the Compy. I have a piece of news for you. 

Did I not mention in one of my first letters that Mrs. 
Gates had been invited by Mrs. Chase (the lady who 
first raised our flag) to come on? She is now here. I 
have not seen her, but intend, if to-morrow is a mild day, 
to call on her. Her arrival will, I hope, make our Col. 
better satisfied with his position here. She had, I hear, 
some difficulties to contend with, in getting here. The 
Col. will, I suppose, tell the whole story when I see him. 

Mr. Wyse called to see me this afternoon; he seems 
very well contented, and talks about his Company's 
being mounted. It is very well that all men are not 
constituted alike. I feel very certain that with all 
my attachment to my profession, I would have re- 
signed and gone to Vera Cruz as a Volunteer, rather 
than to have remained here. I am glad, however, 
that I was not put to the trial. 

8 P.M. Mr. Judd has just left, having called to see 
me. He expects to start to-morrow or the next day. 

Before I stop I will take you a walk through the 
market. In the first place you see the "Flag of our 
Country^ " ; it is placed on a platform intended to receive 
a statue of Genl. Santa Anna. The house is the guard- 
house; the square is paved with stones. Let us com- 
mence with the people farthest from the river. I have 



60 An Artillery Officer 

marked the line i . ^ Here you see tables and people — 
soldiers and others — drinking coffee and chocolate with 
cakes and bread. The coffee is kept hot in large tin 
urns with charcoal burning under them. You ask 
me what that Mexican woman is doing there, turning 
a stick between the palms of her hands as she stoops 
over that earthen pot on the fire. She is making 
a cup of chocolate for some one. She will pour some 
out, then put it on the fire and turn her stick in it 
again, and then pour more out ; now she puts a piece of 
sponge cake into the saucer, and hands it to that man ; 
he pays her sixpence for it, and she smiles as pleasantly 
as if he had made her a present. 

A little farther on you see a pile of curious-shaped 
earthen pots; they are used for cooking, some are 
for meats and vegetables, others for chocolate, and 
others are water jars. Next you see several straw hats ; 
they are worn by the people of the country ; the prices 
are from 25 cts. apiece to $1.50. That man is selling 
coarse Mexican blankets and some common cotton 
goods. 

Now we will commence with the next line; here you 
see no tables, the articles are either in open boxes 
slightly raised on one side, on coarse matting, or upon 
the pavement. The first box contains a large dried 
black pepper; this is the sweet pepper; next are green 
peppers, bird's-eye peppers, the true cayenne, and 
another kind somewhat larger. There are black 
beans, the favorite bean, about the size of our garden 
pea; next the large kidney, then the common pea; 
then a small flat bean much used with rice, a box of 
which comes next; take care that you don't tread 
upon that fine large lettuce or upon those egg-plants. 

' A diagram was enclosed in letter. 



In Mexico 6i 

But what is that man doing? See, he has a kind of 
bag, which seems filled with moss, and he is taking 
something out of it and opening the moss which is made 
into a kind of ball ; they are eggs which he has brought 
to market on the back of a donkey. Each ball holds 
an egg carefully wrapped. See, there is another man 
who is opening com shucks in which he has fastened 
his eggs. 

Most of them in this and the next line have nearly 
the same things; here is a vegetable something like 
the egg-plant in its form, but that it is flattened; it has 
a deep crease at one end, and a piece projecting out like 
a tongue ; the plant has small points on it which do not 
stick you; this plant is cooked like the egg-plant, but 
I think it is much better. I have tried to get the seed, 
but was told that the fruit itself was planted, and that 
the part looking like a tongue will grow into a vine 
on which some fifty or sixty of these will grow. I will 
try to take one to Father. That pretty red bird you see 
there is the pink curlew- its feathers are beautiful; 
you must have some to make a fan; he asks 12}/^ cts. 
for it and says it is good to eat. It is not very good. 
That basket-looking coop made of corn-stalks holds 
chickens. Ducks and turkeys you see here. That 
man has sugar cane and plantains for sale; the next 
one bananas, $1.00 for a bunch of green ones; we won't 
give it — we may find some ripe ones farther on. 

But come, we must make haste, and return home; we 
have not the time to see all the things this morning 
and will glance along as we run through these lanes of 
market people near the river. In the boats are very 
fine fish; look at those turtles with supple twigs tied 
around their bodies between their shells and their 
legs, so that they can't move their legs; there is corn, 



62 An Artillery Officer 

rice, dried corn, coarse salt, Mexican soap, raisins, 
onions, gariic, cabbage, mint, parsley in small bundles, 
cigaritos (small paper cigars smoked by ladies! as 
well as gentlemen) ; the most beautiful white lard you 
ever saw; sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes; tomatoes, 
some very small — the wild tomatoes — others red like 
our common ones, and some of a very rich yellow; 
radishes, green peas — see those long strips piled up on 
those cow hides — that is jerked beef. 

Look at that donkey, see his tail trimmed. He 
has naturally, the poor creature, very little hair on it. 
On his back you see four layers or steps of bottles. 
That is a common drink of the country made of cane 
juice. There goes another donkey carrying water; he 
has four kegs; when the man stops to sell his load, he 
places a wide leather strap over the eyes of his donkey ; 
this keeps the animal quiet and still — a pair of leather 
spectacles. But here we are at home. We may take 
another walk through the market in Vera Cruz. 

1.30, Sunday morning, Feb. 28th. 

I have heard that Genl. Worth is off the mouth of the 
River, and that a mail has been received at the office. 
I will nm down to see if I cannot get a letter from 
you, — 3.15. Thank God the mail did bring me two 
letters from my wife. 

My letters, which you will have received long ere this, 
will have removed all cause of uneasiness about the 
imcertainty of my arrival here, and subsequent letters 
will have informed you how well I have been taken 
care of since my arrival. Place your confidence, and 
place it freely and fully, in Almighty God who has 
always been more careful of me than I have deser^^ed, 
and you will then feel that all will go right. Repine 



In Mexico 63 

not that He has separated us for a while; He knows 
what is best; we can not look wisely ahead for a single 
hour. The end will convince us of His foresight, our 
shortsightedness; His wisdom, our folly. 

You express apprehensions about your letters, that 
I may never receive them. I think I have them all: 
Jany. 7, 14, 21, 29; Feby. 4 and 12. In your letter of 
the 4th of Feby. you say that it is your fifth; such you 
see my table of letters received makes it. You ask 
whether it is worth while for you to send the Intelligencer; 
scarcely, because I see from the loose manner in which 
business is transacted here in the Post Office, that any 
person can go in and help himself to any papers he 
chooses. I hear from my friends who read papers, 
all the news. I do not feel much like reading. 

I have just heard that Genl. Patterson has notified 
the gentlemen who are to accompany him that the 
Alabama will leave at 9 o'clock in the morning. The 
Regina is still at the mouth of the River, and I think 
it probable that I may leave the Alabama and get on 
board with the rest of the "G's." 

Dr. Cuyler received a letter from Mrs. Cuyler as late 
as the 13th. She writes that she had heard from Miss 
Johanna Wade that the Major had been ordered to 
Tampico. Col. Gates will, I presume, detain the Major 
with his Compy. at this place — he will meet his brother- 
in-law, Major Buchanan, here in command of the 
Baltimore troops. 

The Army Bill I see has passed; it may help me a 
little. I am very much pleased with the synopsis you 
give of your newspaper readings. I learn from it many 
things which I had not before heard. 

You must not write me such long letters — one page 
telling me that all are well and that you are walking 



64 An Artillery Officer 

about and getting strong again, would give all the 
pleasure I can receive from any letters, and particularly 
when I know that the effort necessary to write those 
long letters tires you. Let me urge you by all the 
love you bear me, and I know its weight and its 
worth, to take care of yourself. Look at events which 
have passed. Do you not see how groundless were a 
thousand fears which have harassed and worried your 
life out? The imcertainty of the departure of our 
mails, though I have put you on your guard against 
it, has caused you, I know, many bitter hours of anxiety 
and uneasiness. This letter I leave under a promise 
from the Postmaster that it will go the day after to- 
morrow. It may, however, remain here a week. When 
I shall have another opportunity of sending a letter 
off, no one can tell. That Genl. Scott will have his 
letters as frequently as practicable, I know, but he 
may not care about reporting until he has executed 
something to make a report about. I shall reserve 
my vacant space for a talk with you to-night and 
to-morrow morning. 

7.30. Major Capers came in soon after I had finished 
the above; he is as big, consequential and important 
as man can well be; he said that he had been down 
to see Genl. Worth who had sent for him. The Genl. 
was on the Steamer Edith at the mouth of the River. 
I was sorry to hear that the Genl. looks badly; he is 
said to be in fine spirits, says that of course we shall 
whip the Mexicans at Vera Cruz, does n't believe any 
of the rumors we hear about Genl. Taylor's likelihood 
of being defeated by Santa Anna. 

Dr. Wright received a letter to-day from an officer 
serving under Genl. Taylor, who writes that Genl. T. 
had advanced ten leagues from Saltillo on the road 



In Mexico 65 

towards San Luis, and that the report there was that 
Santa Anna had withdrawn his forces from San Luis 
and intended opposing the landing of our Army at 
Vera Cruz. The next thing we shall probably hear of 
Santa Anna, will be an attack made on some place he 
may hope to surprise. 

You must not allow yourself to be worried by the 
thousand reports with which the papers will now be 
filled. Every paper must have some items of interest 
to publish about the Army at Vera Cruz. Show any- 
thing you may see to your Father, and he will tell 
you how much credit may be attached to it. 

We shall not be able to disembark the Army much 
earlier than the 15th of March, so that you can not 
hear any thing certain from its operations sooner 
than about the last of March or 1st of April. I must 
save the other side for to-morrow. Good-night. 

Monday morning, Feb. 29th, 9 a.m. 
The wagon has just come for our baggage, and 
I must bid you farewell. Rumor reports that an at- 
tack was recently made by 2000 Cavalry on one of 
Genl. Taylor's posts, and that the Mexicans lost four 
hundred men; the attack was said to have been made 
at night. 

No. I. Steamship "Alabama," 

Off Anton Lizards. 

March 5, 1847. 
Anchored at last, I resume my correspondence. 
The date of my last letter I do not remember. The 
little vessel with my Compy. crossed the bar at 
Tampico, Siuiday, 28th ult. As the Doctors, in 
consequence of my having a cold, refused to let me go 
on board with the Compy. I was perforce compelled 



66 An Artillery Officer 

to come on board this ship. Genl. Patterson with his 
Staff were fellow-passengers. One Regt. of Tenn. 
Foot, and Capt. Walker's Compy. 6th U. S. Infy. are 
also on board. 

We got on board Monday the 1st inst., crossed the 
bar the next morning, and getting under weigh about 
midnight, reached the Lobos Islands early the next 
day, where orders were received to proceed South. 
Genl. Scott had already left Lobos. Yesterday we lay 
to for about eight hours in a Norther and arrived at our 
anchorage here about lO o'clock this morning. Genl. 
Scott came in about two hours afterwards, and at the 
suggestion of Col. Campbell commanding the Tenn. 
Regt. he was greeted with three hearty cheers as he 
passed us. 

We are about thirteen or eighteen miles south of 
Vera Cruz. There are at this time, 5.30 P.M., sixty- 
four ships, etc., at anchor in sight; the vessel with 
"G" Co. has not yet arrived, but as the wind is fair, 
I presume she and nearly all the others that are due 
will be in to-morrow. Genl. Worth has just entered 
our stateroom; I must stop to shake hands with him. 
Genl. W. looks badly; his old woimd has given him 
a good deal of pain within the last month. 

I heard yesterday that the Genl. thinks that he will 
be killed in this attack. I cannot think that a man 
who has so bravely passed through so many dangers 
as Genl. W. would give expression to such feelings, 
even if he entertained them. 

Glorious news has just been received from Genl. 
Taylor's Army. The news comes pretty direct. A 
British Man-of-War which communicated this morn- 
ing with Vera Cruz, on coming out gave the last Mexi- 
can papers to some of our Naval Officers — in one of 




GENERAL TAYLOR 



In Mexico 67 

these papers was Genl. Santa Anna's report to his 
Govt. He states that he fought Genl. Taylor on the 
22nd of Feby. at Aguanueva, not far from Saltillo, 
and again the fight was resumed on the 23rd. That 
he, Genl. Santa Anna, having lost in killed and wounded 
1000 men, found it necessary to fall back to "Incarna- 
tion," whence, after having taken care of his sick 
and procured provisions, he would again advance to 
attack Genl. Taylor whose loss he estimates as 2000. 

This paper also mentions that there had been fighting 
for three days in the City of Mexico in consequence 
of the attempt to raise money by forced loans from 
the Clergy. This is certainly most glorious news, 
and coming as it does from the Mexicans, we may 
fairly infer that it has not been colored too strongly 
in our favor. Genl. Taylor has then whipped their 
great man! This news will have a fine effect on our 
troops; all are even more anxious than ever to be led 
to the attack. 

The news from Vera Cruz is that there are about 
3000 Regulars, and a little over 2000 irregulars. Our 
troops will be, including 200 marines, about 13,000. 
The result no one can doubt. Genl. Scott will not 
make his attack in such a manner as unnecessarily to 
sacrifice life. If possible, he will take the place without 
the loss of a man. 

I have a Voltmteer captain who wishes to accompany 
me. He is a gentleman who raised a fine company 
in Uniontown, Pa. which the Secy, of War could 
not receive, as the Regt. from Pa. had been filled up 
before the Capt. went to Washington. Determined to 
be in the fight himself, as soon as he found that his 
Compy. was refused, he started for the Seat of War, 
and is now here. I shall go with him to Genl. Scott 



68 



An Artillery Officer 



to-morrow and request that his wishes may be complied 
with. 

Capt. Austine has declined an offer he received to-day 
of the position of Lt. Col. or Major, in the ist Regt. 
Pa. troops, both these positions being vacated by the 
sickness of those officers. He says that he prefers 
being with me to going into the field with that Regt. 
He is full of zeal and will be of assistance in inspiring 
my Germans with a determination to go ahead. 

Our anchorage is, I hear this evening, eighteen 
miles by land from Vera Cruz, and fifteen miles by water. 
If we land here, we shall have to cross a small river 
about two hundred yards wide; on the way up, there 
is a mill where the stream can easily be waded which 
will make our march somewhat longer. The Naval 
Officers say that no opposition will be made to our 
landing. As I wish to reserve some space for to- 
morrow after my interview with Genl. Scott, I will 
now close by wishing you good-night. That God our 
Heavenly Father may guard and protect you is my 
earnest prayer. Good-night. 

Saturday, March 6th. 

The Regina Hill bearing Col. Belton and "G" 
Co. has not yet arrived. I do hope they will arrive 
to-day, as a rumor says that we are to land to-morrow, 
and it would be hard, after all my endeavors to get 
this Compy. into active service, if they should now 
miss this opportunity for distinction! Genl. Pat- 
terson told me last night that if the Compy. did 
not arrive, he would be very happy to have me with 
him. This would not suit me. 

I called this morning at Genl. Hd. Qrs., but Genl. 
Scott had gone off on a reconnoitring party. All his 



In Mexico 69 

Milty. family went with lim. I saw my old friends 
Capt. C. F. Smith and Ccpt. Vinton. I heard a bad 
translation of Genl. Santa Anna's report. He states 
Genl. Taylor's force at between eight and nine thou- 
sand men. He has nearly doubled the General's force, 
which could not have exceeded six thousand. The 
action took place at Buena Vista, a strong position 
about six miles from Saltillo. He says that he thinks 
of falling back the following morning (24th) as he has 
not a piece of bread or a poimd of rice for his sick. 

We have received no mail since we came down. We 
hope that we may have one to-day as the last Norther 
ought to have brought us down on its swift wings, 
vessels from New Orleans. The next mail ought to 
bring me letters from you as late as the loth Feby. 
I am very anxious to hear that you are well enough 
to be walking about, and that you have made some 
arrangement which will remedy some of the many 
inconveniences which Elizabeth's leaving you has 
given. I must now stop writing, as I see that Col. 
Ward Burnett, New York Regt., has entered the cabin. 
I shall take up my pen again as soon as the recon- 
noitring party returns, as I can then state with some 
certainty when the landing is to take place. 

Monday, 8th. 

The reconnoitring party went so close to the Castle 
on the 6th as to draw a fire from the Mexican battery ; 
no harm was done. Yesterday Col. Belton arrived 
with "G" Co., and I was so much occupied that I 
could not write. We are now momentarily expecting 
a steamer to take us to Sacrificios where the landing 
of the troops is to take place. 

The 3rd Arty, with a company of Sappers and Miners 



70 An Artillery Officer 

constitute the Reserve cf Genl. Worth's Brigade, 
which leads. It is not anticipated that any resistance 
will be made to our landing. I have confidence in the 
protection of our Heavenly Father who has thus far 
protected me with the most fatherly care. This 
letter may not be sent imtil after the engagement, 
in which case I hope to accompany it with another. 

Monday night. 

As no movement was made to-day, in consequence 
partly of an expectation that a ''Norther" would 
interfere with it, I have the pleasure of continuing 
my nightly conversation with you. Genl. Worth's 
Brigade has been increased to-day by the addition 
of about one hundred and eighty Marines, who under 
Capt. Edson form part of the Brigade Reserve under 
Lt. Col. Belton, which as ordered will consist of three 
Compys. 3rd Arty., Capt. Vinton's, Capt. Anderson's; 
Lt. Col. Childs under command of Capt. Taylor, Sappers 
and Miners, Capt. Swift, and the Marines, amounting 
in all to about four hundred and twenty men. As 
the barometers indicate the approach of a "Norther," 
it is probable that no move will be made to-morrow. 

Lt. Judd has arrived with a part of Lt. Steptoe's 
battery. He reports the arrival of Genl. Jesup at 
Tampico in the Steamer New Orleans. We are daily, 
indeed hourly, expecting her arrival here with a mail. 
Capt. F. Taylor is here with a battery of the 1st Arty. 
Lt. Col. Duncan is to arrive. The expected Norther 
will bring, we hope, all the absent vessels. 

All who are here are impatient to make the attack, 
as many dread being detained here during the next 
month, when they apprehend greater danger from the 
yellow fever than from the balls of the Mexicans. 



In Mexico 7i 

The yellow fever commences in Vera Cruz about the 
15th of April, so we have five weeks for operations 
before a necessity will exist for our moving into the 
interior. 

The mountains are occasionally plainly visible from 
our present anchorage. The peak of Orizaba towers 
proudly 17,500 and some odd feet above us. We can 
move to delightful and healthy positions among the 
mountains. Such will undoubtedly be our destina- 
tion as soon as we take Vera Cruz. I am anxious 
to get through this affair as I know that you will 
imagine thousands of dangers which never existed, and 
nothing but the certainty that the City is ours will 
relieve your anxiety. 

This will, I hope, be the last war I shall take an active 
part in. I think after the declaration of peace, I may 
safely promise that I will go ^'a-soldiering" no more. 
I think that no more absurd scheme could be invented 
for settling national difficulties than the one we are 
now engaged in — killing each other to find out who 
is in the right! 

I enjoyed this evening the singing of our Germans; 
they sang several of the songs we used to listen to at 
Tampa Bay. God grant that not many months may 
elapse before we shall enjoy together our pleasures 
again. 

I have not received a line from either of my own 
family. Indeed, I have not written to any one but 
my dear Mother. I have devoted every spare hour 
of my evenings to writing to you and have indeed felt 
very little like writing to any one else. I feel that you 
are entitled to all the time I can take from my duties, 
and indeed I do not feel that I ought to retire to my 
bed without having first held my converse with you. 



72 An Artillery Officer 

As I shall want to add something more to-morrow, I 
shall bid you good-night. 



Tuesday, 9th, sunrise. The signals for sailing are up. 
We shall commence transferring our men to the trans- 
port which is to convey us up immediately. Good-bye. 
May God Almighty bless and preserve you. 

No. I. Camp near Vera Cruz. 

March 12, 1847. 

I have this moment (sunrise) arrived in Camp, and 
hear that a mail is to leave this morning. I fear that 
I am too late for it, but shall scribble a few lines in 
the hope that my good luck may not fail me in getting 
my letter off. My last letter informed you that we 
were on the eve of landing. 

The landing was effected without any attempt to 
prevent or molest us. That night a little skirmishing 
occurred, by which the Mexicans had, a French Naval 
Officer reports, twenty men woimded, — one or two 
of our men are said to have been hit by spent balls. 
The result of the next day's skirmishing resulted in 
killing six Mexicans. 

Yesterday, Lt. Col. Dickison of the S. C. Vol. 
was wounded in the breast, Capt. Alburtis, 2nd Infy., 
killed, and a private of the Rifles killed, a Lt. of the 
Rifles and seven privates are said to have been killed 
— per contra seventeen Mexicans were killed. The 
City is now completely invested (surrounded by 
our troops) and I presume that some of our mortars 
will be in position to-morrow, when they will begin 
to feel the horrors of a siege. 

Why the Mexicans did not meet us on the beach 



In Mexico 73 

when they might have annoyed and cut us up most 
unmercifully, is most unaccoimtable. They act very 
foolishly, throwing shot and shells at small bodies of 
men at distances so great as to make the chances 
of their hitting us almost nothing. 

I am in excellent health, and in good spirits, as 
Genl. Scott has an army of about 14,000 who are in 
good tone for serving. All are zealous and anxious 
to close the siege. 'T is true that all our heavy Ord- 
nance has not yet arrived, but still we have enough 
to bring them to terms before the sickly season com- 
miences. 

No. 2. March 13th, 1847. 

The scrawl sent, or rather written on the nth, will I 
presume be received by the mail which takes this. My 
note book presents nothing worthy of being recorded; 
I shall therefore have very little to say of Army matters. 
Our tents and boxes are landing to-day, so that we 
shall soon be able to make ourselves as comfortable 
as the circumstances of a siege will permit of our 
being. Night before last I was, as I think my last note 
mentioned, on duty with about one hundred and forty 
men to assist Capt. Vinton in the event of his being 
attacked. I passed, of course, a sleepless night, but 
was afforded no opportunity of distinguishing myself. 

To show how inaccurate Camp reports are, I will 
here correct one which I propagated in my last 
letter, and which had come direct from two of Genl. 
Worth's staff. 'T is not true that a Lieut, of Rifles 
and seven privates were killed, nor is it true that 
seventeen Mexicans were killed. 

To-day we hear that the large thirteen-inch mortar, 
with the firing of which they have been amusing them- 



74 An Artillery Officer 

selves, has burst, and we also hear that eight hundred 
men passed through our lines last night and entered 
the City; these men were from Jalapa. I give but 
little credit to both of these rumors. 

I will, to ease your mind in relation to the Military 
prowess and skill of these people, say more of our 
operations than I had intended. Had they planted a 
battery on the beach where they must have thought we 
intended landing, they might, with the unimportant 
loss of their cannon, have killed and drowned a thousand 
of our men. 

As it was, the landing was a most thrilling and excit- 
ing affair; it was effected in about seventy large surf 
boats containing from fifty to eighty men. The ships 
and steamers which brought us up from Anton Lizards, 
with the vessels of war, American, English, French, 
and Spanish, formed a fine background to the picture; 
the surf boats were drawn up in line, the first attached 
to the Steamer Princeton, the others successively to 
each other; the commands were given to wheel to the 
right and advance. 

I suppose that every man on board these boats 
expected to be fired upon as we approached the shore; 
the first boat landed, and such a shout was raised 
throughout the whole line as never was heard before 
on these shores. Why they made no attempt to 
oppose our landing, no one can tell. And since we 
have landed they have kept up a pretty constant 
round of firing; scarcely a quarter of an hour passes 
without our hearing the noise of the firing and flight 
of a harmless shot or shell, nearly all of them falling 
far short of our fines. At night, too, we frequently 
hear their escopettes or large guns, injuring us in no 
other way than by rousing us from our slumbers or by 



In Mexico 75 

causing us to get up and stand by our Arms for a 
quarter of an hour or so. Thus have they, in not 
attacking us when we landed (a work necessarily always 
accomplished with great confusion) and in the useless 
daily waste of powder, shewn a great absence of Mili- 
tary skill. 

To-day an attempt will be made to land our heavy 
Ordnance. One battery will probably be sent to Capt. 
Vinton whose position is about three quarters of a 
mile from the town. Yesterday the aqueduct which 
supplies the City with water was tapped by the Compy. 
of Sappers and Miners; this may distress them very 
much. We do not know, however, what resources 
they may have or what supply they may have in 
their cisterns. 

Capt. Vinton being on detached service, places me 
in the position of Acting Major of this battalion as 
I find, on comparing my date with that of his appoint- 
ment, that I rank him. This may separate me from 
my Compy., but as the battalion is small it is hardly 
worth while to place me on duty as field officer. 

Our sutlers have not yet arrived, so that we are now 
living on the commissary stores, or have to pay the 
prices asked by the sharpers who follow us. This 
morning I priced a iew luxuries as follows : Irish potatoes 
$6.00 a barrel, sheep $5.00 apiece, and pigs $2.50. 
You may readily suppose that we cannot indulge 
frequently in such expensive luxuries. I find every- 
body here, many of my old friends whom I have not 
seen for very many years. 

I saw Genl. Scott a few moments since; he gave 
me a very hearty shake of the hand, but as it is mail day, 
I did not stop to see him. As you always feel an 
interest in the "G's" I am glad that I can give a 



76 An Artillery Officer 

favorable report of them. Our old friend Derr takes 
most fatherly and affectionate care of me. He fre- 
quently comes to me with a nice piece of pork or bacon 
which he has put aside for me, and every morning and 
evening brings me a cup of coffee or tea. The married 
men are all well — indeed there is only one man in the 
Compy. who is on the sick report. 

The Steamer McKimm arrived yesterday without 
a mail. This is really too trying. 'T is not often 
we have opportimities of hearing, but that the vessels 
which arrive do not bring in letters is too bad. I 
must soon receive your letters. I know that several 
are on the way for me. I hear our men criticising our 
Nav}^ as they say that a ship has just entered the 
harbor of Vera Cruz having evaded the blocking 
squadron. 

The weather to-day is very pleasant, and from the 
appearance of the skies, I think we may hope for a 
continuance of it. As soon as I get my tent, which 
will be to-day I think, I shall resume, as far as my camp 
duties will permit, my daily talks with you. That 
mode of writing is much the most satisfactory one to 
me, as when I lie down at night I feel much better 
satisfied with myself than when I have not written. 

Tell Father that the sight of our Army on the beach, 
the morning after we landed, before we had dispersed 
to take our positions around the City, was a glorious 
one — about ten thousand men under arms, and most 
of them in motion. We have now about fourteen thou- 
sand men, as our numbers have been daily increased. 
Some of our troops are not up yet. 

Saturday, March 13th. 
I feel at home, almost, with my pen in hand, seated 



In Mexico n 

in my tent commencing one of my regular talks with 
you. My company baggage was received this evening, 
and I am seated for the first time in my own tent. 

Captain Austen of the Pa. Volunteers who, I men- 
tioned, wanted to serve with me, returned to camp to- 
day. He accompanied us, the day after we landed, to our 
position immediately in front of our present encamp- 
ment, and was so unwell as to be compelled to return 
to the steamer. I learn from him that he is a regular 
correspondent of the New Orleans Delta, and of the 
Baltimore Sun. He tells me that in his last letter 
to the Delta, he mentioned that I was well. This 
information was most kindly meant for you, but he 
did not know where you were, or he would have had 
a copy sent to you. I am sorry that he mentioned my 
name at all as the custom of recording everybody's 
deeds has become so common, that it is almost more 
creditable not to be among the distinguished. 

Col. Totten has been reconnoitring to-day, and has 
decided, I presume, to place several mortars at Cap- 
tain Vinton's position on the sea beach. I would 
attempt a sketch of our encampment, but for two 
reasons; firstly, that I am pretty certain the news- 
papers will present you with an authentic map of the 
encampment of the besieging army of Vera Cruz, and 
secondly, that my talent in that line is so well known 
to you, that I am convinced you will readily excuse 
me for not making the attempt. 

I have just returned from Tattoo; we are very 
military here: all the officers attend roll-calls, and as I 
expect the enemy will be alarmed again to-night, and 
commence firing, which will call us up, I shall very 
soon retire. Unless I can get a good night's rest, I 
shall be worth very little, and we have advanced so 



78 An Artillery Officer 

far, that we may be called to our work at any time. 
Derr has just brought me a cup of coffee: the kind 
creature knew that I had had none for supper. Good- 
night, good-night. 

Sunday night, March 14th. 

The investment of the City being complete, an 
advance was ordered this morning, from each brigade. 
The companies were ordered to drive the Mexicans 
and their pickets into the City. The advanced de- 
tachments are this evening within about seven 
hundred yards of the City. 

Genl. Scott sent an answer this morning to the 
French and Spanish Consuls who made some appli- 
cation to him, probably in relation to protection. 
The Genl.'s answer is said to have been equivalent to 
this: "As far as posssible you shall be protected, 
but when the batteries open on the town, I can give 
you no assurance that you or your property may not be 
injured ; you had better leave the City ; I will give you 
a safe guard to enable you to do so." There has been 
but little activity in the firing to-day. 

A Norther has been raging all day, and a detach- 
ment of two thousand two hundred men has been 
sent towards Anton Lizards to look after a ship, 
reported to be ashore, with Lt. Col. Duncan's battery 
on board. It is now so late, my tent having been 
full, till after Tattoo, of Naval officers kept on shore 
by this storm, that I will bid you good-night. To- 
morrow night, I hope that I shall be master of my own 
time. Good-night. 

Monday, 15th. 
As it is blowing very violently to-night, I hope that 



In Mexico 7^ 

no one will interrupt me. Yesterday, we had a very 
respectable blow, which lulled after midnight, and this 
morning, though there was a cloudy horizon, I enjoyed 
a most magnificent view of the peak of Orizaba. I will 
not attempt a description of its glorious beauty; 
towering among the clouds with its rosy peak re- 
flecting the rays of the sun — which was invisible to us — 
rising as it did, behind dense clouds, with its sides 
concealed from view by broken masses of clouds 
resting on them, it formed a glorious and majestic 
object. Would that we could have enjoyed the sight 
of it together, but I do not want you to come here to 
partake of this enjoyment. We will be well contented 
to participate the delight of seeing more unpretending 
scenery in our own dear land. I hope that among the 
thousands congregated here, there may be some with 
a sufficiency of our friend Weir's talent to paint the 
landscape presented to our view this morning. We 
are now witnesses to the truth of the saying, that 
when the Orizaba is plainly seen, you may be sure 
that the Norther is close at hand. The wind com- 
menced freshening about nine this morning, and 
soon became a gale which is now sweeping the sand so 
rapidly through our Camp as to make it very difficult 
to find our way from one tent to another. Our only 
chance of comparative comfort is either to remain at 
home with closed tent, or to move with handker- 
chiefs closely drawn over the head. 

A vessel got on the breakers in attempting to run 
into our anchorage at Lizards; she will, I fear, if this 
Norther does not soon abate, be a total wreck. Col. 
Harney is said to be on board with some three or 
four companies of the 2nd Dragoons. Our friends 
in Vera Cruz have been throwing a few shells at us 



8o 



An Artillery Officer 



to-day, some coming, accidentally, rather nearer than 
was comfortable. 

Last night, a mail was intercepted; the letters say 
that there is a scanty supply of provisions which will 
last but a short time. Addresses in bad English were 
also taken at the same time, cahing on the Volunteers 
to desert, promising them rich lands, in healthy regions, 
where the best tropical fruits grow, etc. This morning 
a courier was taken who was the bearer of a 
despatch from the City Authorities to the Governor 
of this state, complaining that no aid had been fur- 
nished, stating their condition, the scarcity of pro- 
visions, etc. They are, in fact, so completely surrounded 
by our troops, that it must be a dangerous thing 
for even individuals to enter or leave the City. 

Genl. Scott has decided, I suspect, not to commence 
firing upon the City, but to open his batteries on the 
Castle. He does this, knowing that if the Castle 
be brought to terms, the City falls as a matter of 
course, and that we will then be masters of the City, 
without the dreadful effusion of the blood of women 
and children, which must ensue from a bombardment of 
the City. This is just like him, ever instigated by the 
most humane and generous feelings. I have been in- 
terrupted, and must now bid you good-night. God 
preserve you. 

Tuesday, i6th. 
The day has passed, without the occurrence, as far 
as I have heard, of any things of note. A few Volun- 
teers, who strayed some miles out of our lines report that 
they were fired on by some hundred Infy. and about two 
hundred Cavalry. They are supposed to be troops from 
Alvarado who desire to enter the City. Whether they 




O rt 



E 



In Mexico Si 

will attempt to force an entrance, and on finding how 
closely the City is invested, will abandon the attempt, 
the occurrences of the night will prove. 

This morning among some prisoners taken, one 
dropped a club near one of our guard fires, which on 
examination was found to contain a letter from a man 
in Vera Cruz, to a brother in Puebla, underrating our 
numbers, and stating that if any assistance was to be 
given, it should be done at once, as the supply of 
provisions was small. This club was very cunningly 
devised, for a mail club. A hole had been bored in 
the centre, the letter introduced, a plug of the same 
wood driven in, and then the stick sawed off through 
the plug. The fact is, I presume, that the poor fami- 
lies are already feeling the horrors of a siege, and are 
eagerly looking around for succor. Would that the 
siege was over! 

I fear that all Genl. Scott's foresight will not be 
able to guard against, and prevent the perpetration 
of most shocking acts of brutality in the taking of the 
City. I shall exert my powers to the utmost to aid 
him in stopping such unchristian and brutal acts. 

Major G. just stopped at my tent and asked to 
whom I was writing, and said he would return as he 
wanted to send a message to Genl. Clinch, whom, 
he says, "You know I adore very much." He has 
now gone to his tent, to see whether his command is 
under arms to go out to-night or not. Capt. Vinton 
designs attempting to take a Cavalry Vidette which 
has been for some nights in his neighborhood, and 
three companies have been ordered out to assist. 
This is the duty Maj. G. thinks he may have to be 
occupied in to-night. The Maj. has not, I am sorry 
to say, become a teetotaler. He has been drinking 



82 An Artillery Officer 

very deeply before coming down. I shall try and keep 
him from throwing himself away, as he is too gallant 
and noble-minded to be permitted to destroy himself. 

Fearing that we may be kept awake by alarms 
through the night, I will now retire, praying that God 
may give you that peace of mind and happiness 
enjoyed by good Christians. Good-night. 

Wednesday, 17th. 

The mail, thank God, brought this evening your 
letter of the eighteenth Feb. The mail preceding 
your letter had brought you news from Tampico 
up to the day we arrived there. Your next mail 
must have given you at least two letters from me. 
I know now how miserable you must have been made 
by each arrival of a mail bringing nothing from me. 
You have, however, since that time, imless the Post 
Office has played you false, received some letters. 
Every succeeding mail must have given you one and 
generally two letters. You must not, my wife, be 
uneasy if you do not receive letters by every mail. 
For although I shall write by every opportimity, still 
you must recollect that the vessels carrying them may 
be several days on the passage. We were, be it re- 
membered (I am sure you always will), twenty-two 
days from Tampa to Tampico. Again, letters may 
remain some time in New Orleans, and a mail may well 
be missed at Savannah. All of these might keep you 
from receiving my letters for two or three mails. 
This will try you severely, my wife, but it is best 
to look at the worst shade of the picture. 

I think that I shall close this letter to-night, for the 
chance of a vessel's going to-morrow, as I know that 
until you hear of Vera Cruz being taken, you will not 



In Mexico ^3 

have one moment's peace. But, with such an Army 
as we have and against such an enemy, the chances are 
that after one hour's firing of our Mortars, the City 
will raise the white flag. This leads, of course, at once, 
to a capitulation. Genl. Scott will be as liberal to- 
wards the Vera Cruzians as his duty to his own Govt, 
will permit. 

You write that the ten Regt. Bill has passed, and 
ask if I am not going to be promoted. My wife, you 
have forgotten the provision of the bill requiring 
the President to make the selections of Cols., Lt. Cols., 
and Majors during the session of Congress. Those 
of us who are here could not possibly through our own 
agency have exerted the least influence in procuring 
advancement, as all the appointments must have been 
made before our letters could have reached Wash- 
ington, and perhaps before they might have reached 
New Orleans. 

No minor appointment would I, of course, agree to 
take. I would not give up my Captaincy in my Regt. 
for anything below a Lt. Colonelcy or a Majority in 
one of the new Regts. From the decided hostility 
evinced by President Polk to the Army, and his eager 
desire to secure political influence in his appointments, 
I have no -doubt that all the exertions which might 
have been made by my friends would have been disre- 
garded. The President in his appointments for the 
Rifle Regt. when gratitude towards gallant men, who 
by their valor had saved his administration, demanded 
some recognition, spoke as plainly to the Army as 
actions could speak, stating that we need expect 
nothing from him. For myself, I am becoming pretty 
thoroughly disgusted with the way in which the Army 
is treated, and care very little about remaining in it 



84 An Artillery Officer 

after the close of this war. This disgust is felt by very 
many, some of whom will undoubtedly resign as soon 
as peace is declared. God grant that the happy tidings 
may soon be heard in our land. 

Everything has been pretty quiet about the lines 
to-day. A few shells and shots have been thrown, 
but no one has, I think, been injured. The storm so 
far abated to-day as to permit us to resume the landing 
of oiu- Mortars and guns ; ten of the former are now on 
the beach. To-morrow, I hope, will place us in 
possession of fifteen or twenty more — and then a few 
days only will be required to place them in position. 
That want of food would soon compel the [City and 
Castle to surrender (?)] is a very general camp impres- 
sion ; but on this point, as well as on all others relating 
to the siege, Genl. Scott's information is much more 
accurate than ours. I have just heard that another 
mail is here. I will reserve the rest of this space for 
to-morrow, as I may hear from you again. 

Tuesday, i8th. 
I have just received orders to go out with our Bat- 
talion to establish a Mortar Battery and will not be 
able to write any more to-night. 

March 19th. 

We were out engaged in making a battery for Mortars 
all night, returning into Camp at half -past four o'clock. 
We worked without being discovered. I threw the 
first shovelful of earth in breaking ground for the attack 
on Vera Cruz! I think, from their firing to-day, 
that they have discovered our work, as they have fired 
over a hundred shot and shell since ten o'clock. 

Lieut. Hill has just informed me that the Massa- 



In Mexico 85 

chusetts will go to New Orleans to-morrow. I must, 
as he is waiting to take charge of this letter for me, 
now close. May God Almighty protect and guard my 
wife. Be of good cheer, I shall continue, as punc- 
tually as practicable, my daily letters, and hope to 
give you good news. Love to Father and the family. 

No. 3. March 19th. 

Having deposited No. 2 in the Post Office this 
afternoon I now commence our evening's chat, with 
No. 3, though to say the truth I feel so stupid that 
I shall prove very sorry company. As it will be 
impolite for me either to go to sleep, or to evince great 
stupidity, it will be well for me at once to excuse myself 
by stating why I cannot act better. 

Last afternoon, at the request of Genl. Worth, I 
accompanied a party of officers on a visit to the out- 
posts, the Genl. stating that our command was destined 
for the advance pickets to-morrow night. On my 
return, I flattered myself with the hope of having a 
comfortable sleep, as the enemy had been very quiet 
through the day, having thrown very few shot or 
shell. 

Our Camp (3rd Arty.), I may as well here state, is 
south of Vera Cruz, say two and a half miles off, and 
having a high sand hill sixty or eighty feet high be- 
tween us and the City, forming an excellent protection. 
We are just at its base, in a little triangle having 
smaller sand hills on the two other sides. My hopes 
of having a quiet night were, however, doomed to be 
sadly wrecked. 

We had just finished oiu* frugal evening meal when 
we heard the well known clatter of the sword of the 
Staff Officer, who usually brings orders to the Camp. 



86 



An Artillery Officer 



Col. Belton's call for Mr. Austine soon followed, and 
we were informed that two hundred men were required 
from our Camp, to report immediately to Col. Totten 
on the beach, the men to have their arms slung, with 
one half dozen cartridges in their pockets, "G" Co. 
was soon ready. 

We marched to the Engineer depot where the men 
were furnished with picks, spades, and axes, each man 
having two of different kinds of these articles. A 
young Engineer was our pilot and we silently took 
up our line of march in single file. 

The night was very favorable for our obtaining our 
position unperceived, the night being dark, with a mist 
amounting almost to a gentle drizzling rain. We lost 
our way and approached to within five or six hundred 
yards from the City, where we could hear the voices 
of the sentinels and men in the town very distinctly. 
Our young Engineer took some two or three men and 
searched for the position we were to occupy; after an 
hour's absence he returned and led us on. We found 
Capt. Lee and Lt. Smith expecting us. The men were 
at once ordered into the area enclosed by the cords 
marking the outlines of the battery and set to work 
cutting away the brush or digging and throwing the 
earth into an embankment designed as a protection 
against the balls of the Castle and town for those who 
will man the battery to be placed there. /, of course, 
threw out the first spadeful. 

With occasional relieves from some forty Marines, 
the men of "G" Co. worked till about half -past three, 
when the relieving Engineers came. Our men then 
placed their working tools in order on the ground, 
and resuming their Arms we quietly retraced our way to 
Camp, where we arrived a little before five, not having 



In Mexico ^7 

been honored with a shot or shell from Castle, City, 
or even from a stray rancher o. 

We met the men who were to relieve us, on our way 
down. They must have reached their work about the 
time we reached Camp. We left the work in such a 
state as to protect them pretty effectually from the shot 
of the enemy. They have not, however, succeeded in 
accomplishing their tour of duty (twelve hours) un- 
perceived and unsaluted, as the enemy have been 
firing at their embankment ever since about eleven 
this morning when they were probably first noticed. 

Our party commenced two works about one hundred 
yards apart and three quarters of a mile from the town. 
Capt. Edson was at the other work. To-night I pre- 
sume the relieving party will take up timber to make 
a platform for the mortar beds to rest upon, and to- 
morrow night I suppose the mortars with the shells 
will be put in place. 

We hear this evening that another ship has arrived 
with Ordnance; I hope that she brings about twenty 
mortars, as we can use that number to great advantage. 
We hear also from a captured Mexican that there has 
been 2l pronunciamiento m Mexico (the City) declaring 
that those who made the war might fight it. Doubtful. 

Now as you know that I am no sleeper in the day, 
am I not excusable for being stupid? Tattoo is now 
beating and I must attend. I attend with my officers 
all roll-calls now, as we are in the presence of the enemy. 
Just returned; as the town is quiet, I hope they will 
let me have a quiet night, though they may attempt 
annoying our working parties; if so it will annoy me 
more than I wish. 

March 20th. 

How vain are our hopes, some of them. Instead 



88 An Artillery Officer 

of being permitted to pass my night quietly in my 
tent as I hoped, I was on picket all night with the 
Compy. I had just composed myself for sleep when 
I heard a few musketry shot from some of the outer 
pickets ; this was soon followed by the generate when I 
was quickly at the head of the Compy. After the 
expiration of some fifteen minutes a staff officer gal- 
loped up to where Col. Belton was standing and directed 
him by order of Genl. Worth to detach a Compy. of 
his command for outlying picket service. It being 
my turn for service I was soon en route and took post 
for the night. Not an enemy, or anything a sane man 
could have taken to be one, was seen. During the 
night there was some firing by the camp pickets, but 
the cowardly fears of the sentinels caused them. 

To-night our battalion goes out as the advance 
pickets, but, as the Navy is going to amuse the town 
during the night by throwing shot and shells, I pre- 
sume that we shall have very little to excite us. The 
object of the Navy's firing to-night is to withdraw 
the attention of the Military in the City from our 
batteries, which it is intended to arm during the 
night. 

Ten more mortars have arrived so that we shall 
now have an armament which will authorize us to 
open our batteries with every prospect of success 
upon the town. Yesterday they threw, as counted 
by one of the officers, one hundred and seventy- 
four shot and shells, and not a single man was hurt. 
One man, as he was stooping at his work, lost from 
a shot his suspenders, which were in a kind of knot 
at his back. Two Mexicans were killed by the pick- 
ets of the 2nd Brigade, in an attempt to pass through 
our lines from town. 



In Mexico 89 

Our Army in the line of investment, extends about 
seven miles. You may imagine how difficult it is 
for any person to state the daily events which take 
place in the Army. The health of the Compy. with 
very few and trifling exceptions, is good. All the 
married men are well, except Corp. Devit who has 
had a slight touch of ague ; he is, however, nearly fit for 
duty. 

My health, with the exception of the cold which 
separated me from the Compy. at Tampico, has been 
better than it was when I was at Tampa Bay. In my 
tent I have more comforts than almost any one I have 
seen in camp. And I have india-rubber cloth and my 
old cloak which protect me from the dews of night, 
and keep me warm enough when I am on detailed 
service from our Camp. 

When we go out on duty, we leave a few men to 
guard the Camp, and leave everything standing. Each 
officer and man takes with him in his haversack 
provisions to last him his time of service. Old Derr I 
sometimes take, but not always, as he is frequently 
more serviceable in taking care of my things than in 
accompanying us. As yet we have only been enjoying 
the comforts of the soldiers' rations, but as the Sutlers 
are now arriving, we shall soon be supplied with 
anything we want. 

As I spoiled the last letter by crossing, I think I 
shall not cross this one, but continue it by taking an- 
other sheet. This method presents, too, this advantage, 
that as soon as I hear that a vessel is about to sail, 
I can at once despatch the sheet or sheets which I have 
finished. Every few days I thus have a letter on 
hand for the mail. I shall now make some preparation 
for going out to-night. Good-bye, etc., etc. 



90 An Artillery Officer 

Sunday, 21st. 
Tattoo. You see by my closing lines that I did not 
intend crossing this letter, but as I hear that the 
Princeton leaves the Squadron to-morrow for the 
United States, I must, at the risk of giving you a little 
guessing, add a few lines. We have just returned 
from our tour of advanced picket duty. We had a 
quiet night as the enemy made no attempt to harass us. 
The platforms for the Mortar batteries were laid for 
six mortars to-day. The mortars will be taken to 
their positions to-night, and probably to-morrow we 
may commence firing. I do not think the City can 
stand many days' firing, and would not be surprised were 
my next letter addressed to you from the City of Vera 
Cruz. Good-night. May God guard and protect you. 

Tuesday morning, 23rd. 
The Engineer has just told me that six mortars 
were placed in position last night. 

No. I. Besieging Camp, Vera Cruz, Mex. 

March 23rd. 
Again has my plan of writing a little to you each 
day been interfered with. Yesterday morning I 
went into the trenches and took charge of one of the 
Mortar batteries. We remained on duty twenty-four 
hours, and as we were engaged every minute of that 
time either in firing, or in something connected with 
that duty, I had neither opportimity nor time for 
writing. The operations are now rapidly advancing; 
a new battery of heavy guns under Naval Officers 
was opened this morning. 

'This letter "No. i" of March 23d appears to be No. 4 of the 
series written from the Camp near Vera Cruz. 



I 



In Mexico 91 

To-morrow morning a heavy battery of twenty- 
four pounders and of eight-inch howitzers (six pieces 
in all) will be opened. In addition to what we are 
using, eighteen Mortars arrived yesterday. These, when 
in position, will give us twenty-eight Mortars which, 
with the batteries of heavy guns above alluded to, 
must soon compel the City to surrender. 

In my last letter I think that I mentioned that 
Genl. Scott had summoned the City to surrender, and 
that a civil negative was returned. Our Mortars 
commenced firing the moment that answer was received, 
and have continued the fire night and day. We have 
no means of ascertaining the amount of injury in- 
flicted on the City, but I fear that the destruction of 
life must be very great. 

It really goes to my heart to be compelled to do 
my duty when I know that every shot either injures 
or seriously distresses the poor inoffensive women and 
children, who have neither part nor lot in the War. 
On our side the loss in numbers is trifling. 

I regret that I have to announce the death of an 
Officer of the 3rd whom you saw at Charleston. 
Capt. Vinton was killed by an eight-inch howitzer, 
which appeared to have struck him on the side of his 
head, and to have rolled along down his face and 
breast. So near was the force of the shell spent, that 
the skin on his side face was not broken. 

I make my men protect themselves carefully in the 
battery and have had not an injury of any seriousness 
among them. Sergt. Foster will be excused from duty 
for a few days in consequence of a slight cut made by 
the fragments of a shell. In my own case, I look with 
confidence to the protecting care of our Heavenly 
Father who has shielded us both in many dangers. 



9^ An Artillery Officer 

I hope that my next letter will inform you that Vera 
Cruz with its celebrated Castle is in our possession. 
The moment we are Masters here, I presume that we 
shall be marched into the interior to some healthy 
position. Genl. Scott suggested that, the day of the 
summons. I was dining with him on that day; the 
summons was sent by Capt. Johnston, Topographical 
iingmeers. 

Great enthusiasm prevails throughout the Army, and 
all cheerfully perform the duties required of them, 
ihe Companies are sometimes on duty three days 
m succession, as was the case with "G" Co last week 
but there was no grumbling. And, although they were 
on duty all day yesterday and last night, there was no 
exhibition of dissatisfaction when I mentioned that 
they would be on the same duty to-morrow. An 

Army with such feelings will never fHnch from the 

performance of any duty. 

I shall leave the remainder of this sheet for this 

evening s news, as I hope to have a half hour to myself. 

m which I shall resume, for this evening at least, my 

delightful night's chat with you. 

Evening. 
Nothing of interest to communicate to-night. I 
have just returned from a visit to Col. Totten, the 
Chief Engineer, to see his map of the City.' Lt. 
Scammon has kindly furnished me with a copy in- 
dicating the points of most interest to us in our opera- 
tions. I sincerely hope that a few days firing will show 
them the inutiHty of longer delaying the surrender, and 
that the taking of this, connected with Genl. Taylor's 
glorious whipping of Santa Anna, will have a favorable 
effect in tending to an early termination of this un- 



il 




o ^ 



B 



In Mexico 93 

fortiinate War. I think that killing people is a very 
poor way of settling National grievances. 

I hope that we shall stay long enough in Vera Cruz 
for me to procure you a few articles of Spanish brass, 
etc., which I will send by some vessel returning to the 
United States. Genl. Scott told me to-day that this 
letter must be sent to his quarters early to-morrow ; I 
will therefore not run the risk of keeping it open till the 
morning, as I might not have time to close and direct it, 
before leaving camp. I shall therefore be compelled 
to make a short letter of it, and give it to Yawn to-night ; 
he will be left in camp to-morrow, with instructions 
for him to take it to Genl. Scott's Hd. Qrs. soon after 
breakfast. 

You must not worry yourself by the idea that this 
constant work is wearing me down; my health is ex- 
cellent; the only thing I have to complain of is that 
having lost the plug from one of my teeth it annoys 
me by feeling sore. Thus you see that I have 
a personal interest in inducing the Vera Cruzians to 
let us enter their inhospitable gates. I shall expect 
to be blessed with a series of letters from you on re- 
turning from this tour of duty. Give my best love 
to Father and all the family. 

No. 5. Besieging Camp near Vera Cruz. 
March 27, 1847. 
"Te Deum Laudamus." Commissioners were asked 
for by the Mexicans yesterday, and from the suspen- 
sion of the firing this morning, the inference may fairly 
be drawn that terms are now being discussed for the 
surrender of Vera Cruz. But as this is a most im- 
portant event in our Army affairs, and as yesterday 
was an important and interesting date in our own, it 



94 An Artillery Officer 

may be best for me to give as distinctly as I can trace 
them, the incidents connected with my last day's 
tour of duty in the batteries. 

The morning of the 25th, leaving camp at four A.m., 
we reached the batteries in about a quarter of an hour; 
in a few moments we opened our fires on the devoted 
City. My position was in Battery No. i where I had 
been on the 23rd. Finding that there was a pretty 
good supply of ammunition, I soon accelerated the 
rapidity of my fires, till we threw a shell from the 
battery every minute, giving them twenty shells an 
hour from each of my three pieces. The Mexican 
batteries for a short time paid particular attention 
to us, but finding that they were also under a heavy 
fire from the other batteries of our line, they were 
compelled to make a more equitable distribution of 
their favors and we were soon left to the enjoyment 
of only our share of their shells. 

Sometime in the afternoon, perhaps between four 
and five, I observed a white flag approaching the 
Mexican battery nearest to our lines. I instantly 
suspended the fire of my battery, and sent word to the 
commanders of the other batteries to do the same. 
The flag approached, a shot was fired over the heads 
of the party bearing it (an officer, interpreter, and 
sergeant) and a white flag rapidly run up and down at 
the battery; the flag again approached, another shot 
was thrown over the party, which halted for a minute 
or two, and again approached; another shot brought 
the party to a full halt, when in a few minutes a party 
of three Mexicans was seen approaching our flag. 
A poHte salutation informed us that the conference had 
commenced. It lasted but for a few moments, when 
the parries separated and returned. 



In Mexico 95 

Our flag, it appears, was an answer from Genl. Scott 
to an application received the day before from the Con- 
suls requesting that they might be permitted with their 
families to leave the City, and that this permission 
might be extended to the women and children. Genl. 
Scott's answer is said to have been a negative. 

The excitement at the battery when the Mexicans 
fired the second and third shot over our flag was in- 
tense. They were anxious for me to open my fires upon 
that battery, but knowing that the language of the 
shot was simply, "Don't advance," I declined doing so. 
Col. Belton came up a short time afterwards, when I 
reported to him my reasons for discontinuing the fire; 
this was approved by him, and also by Col. Bankhead 
our " Chief of Artillery. " 

About nightfall I was ordered not to fire until the 
Mexican batteries opened their fires, and then to return 
it vigorously. This order was, however, limited to 
the time of the completion of some work on which 
the Engineers were employed. Finding at twenty 
minutes past two on the morning of the 26th that 
everything was ready, I gave the signal by firing one 
of the mortars at the Castle of San Juan d'Ulua. The 
thundering boom of this piece was soon answered 
by our whole line; in about twenty minutes I heard 
the notes of a bugle in the City; it discontinued and 
was again repeated. I told Col. Belton that it was a 
signal I was not famiUar with, and that I supposed it 
might be a "parley." On hearing the same notes a third 
time I was authorized to cease firing. This was done 
in the expectation of the flag of truce being sent to one 
of our batteries. A picket was advanced to receive 
him, but as no one approached, after a silence of 
about half an hour, we resumed and continued our 



96 An Artillery Officer 

firing till we were relieved at five o'clock yesterday 
morning. 

On our way home we were overtaken by the severest 
Norther I have experienced; on coming into camp, 
blinded with dust, we found many of the tents down. 
Mine still stands, a wreck, the fly torn to pieces and 
the tent torn nearly through along the ridge pole. 

Yesterday morning very eariy, a Mexican came to 
Genl. Scott's tent with a note from the officer second 
in command (stating that Genl. Morales was sick) 
asking the appointment of Commissioners to make 
arrangements for the surrender of the City. Genl. 
Scott replied that he had already named Commis- 
sioners (Genl. Worth, Genl. Pillow, and Col. Totten). 
To this Genl. Morales replied by stating that he had 
appointed Commissioners to meet ours to enter into 
arrangements for the surrender of the City and Fort. 
The Commissioners met and disagreed; it is said that 
the instructions given to the Mexican Commissioners 
authorized them to assent to the surrender, the troops 
to march out with colors flying, taking their Arms, etc. 
This was of course, declined by ours, and they sepa- 
rated with the understanding that if the white flag 
was not raised at six o'clock this morning, our firing 
would be resumed. 

No firing has yet taken place, the Commissioners are 
now^ in the City, and the white flag is occasionally 
passing and repassing, coming, I presume, to Genl. 
Scott for specific instructions on the points raised 
during the discussion of the terms. 

I omitted mentioning in the proper place that the 
Mexican batteries did return our fires yesterday 
morning; thus has the 3rd the honor of being on 
duty when the parley was sounded, and (if this dis- 



In Mexico 97 

cussion leads to a surrender) when the last gun was 
fired from their batteries. 

I commenced this letter, intending to send it by the 
Pnnceton. but as I leam that a mail is being made 

may delay till the termination of the discussion which 

Tl M '"""n T ^°' ^ "^^^ °' '""• I *i"k I =hall send 

It to New Orleans. 

Genl. Scott deserves, and I hope will receive, all credit 
with h.s countrymen for the almost bloodless triumph 

mavlad'f " '^ ''^ ^""^"'«^- ""^ ^-' '^atThi^ 
war wnf ^ ^"1 ^"f ngement by which this unfortunate 
war wJl be closed. The Navy have suffered very 
everely at their battery; during their first day's fire! 
they lost four sailors, and on the second day, Mid- 
shipman Shubrick and one sailor were killed and two 
were wounded. 

In a skirmish on the 25th we lost a few men-the 
numbers I do not know. But all our loss is very little 
compared with those of the other battles whici have 
taken place during the war, much less than any one 
could reasonably have expected. The Mexicans have 
fired with great accuracy, but our men have been well 
protec ed >.«y, by the position of our camp, Ind 
secondly, by the parapets, etc., formed for the protection 
of our batteries. 

We have peculiar reasons for remembering the 26th- 
let us then unite with all our hearts in thanks to ou; 
Heavenly Father for so glorious an addition to our 
reasons for thankful rejoicings at the return of that day 
I have been thus far shielded from danger by His hand 
and pray that He may soon return me to my darting 
family, to leave them no more. ^ 

A quarter past one p.m. The Commissioners have 



.$8 An Artillery Officer 

not yet retumed.and as I am fearful that I may miss the 
mail, I think that I had better close my letter and 
maU it at once. A mail may go without my bemg 
informed of it. The rumor now is that Genl. Scott 
has, in consideration of the value of the acquisition 
of the Castle San Juan, etc., consented to permit the 
soldiers to go into the interior as pnsoners of War. 

No 6 Camp Washington, near Vera Cruz, Mex. 

March 27th. 

No 5 has been sent to the Post Office to take its chance 
for a mail to New Orleans; this will, I think, go by the 
Princeton which will bear Genl. Scott's despatches^ 
I have this moment returned from Genl. Scott s Hd. 
Qrs where I learned that the position of the negotiation 
is this The Mexican proposition was that the Othcers 
and men were to march out with arms and equipments, 
with colors flying, to go into the interior to some 
designated point, the citizen soldiery not to be mo- 
fested for the part they had taken in the War.the citizens 
to be protected in their personal property, their religion 
not to be interfered with, that in the event of hostilities 
being resumed, the women and children to be permitted 
to leave the City, etc. 

Genl. Scott declined their first proposition and de- 
mands that the officers and men should be surrendered as 
prisoners of War, the officers to be paroled, and finally 
consented, that the men instead of being sent to the 
United States, might be sent into the mtenor on a 
pledge from their officers that they should not serve 
during the War; of course he assented to the request 
about private property and not interfenng w.th 
the religion of the people; to the request about the 



In Mexico 99 

women and children leaving the City, if hostilities were 
resumed, he gave a prompt denial. 

The details of the affair will be drawn up by the 
Commissioners under the instructions of the Genl., 
which are very particular, and you will soon see them 
in all the papers, as the Editors of the Picayune are 
here collecting everything that takes place. 

As I mentioned in my letter No. 5, General Morales 
resigned, turning over the command to Genl. Jose 
Juan de Landero. Genl. Landero now states that 
Genl. Morales did not place him in command of the 
Castle of "Ulua" and that its commander is not 
responsible to him. The Commissioners express an 
apprehension that the Castle may not consent to the 
terms agreed upon, and one of them had, at the last 
advices, gone to the Castle to ascertain whether he could 
not bring the garrison to consent to the terms proposed. 
The difficulty appears to be this, that, though we 
have inflicted most serious destruction on the City, 
the soldiery has, as yet, suffered very little, and they 
fear that it may be thought that they ought to have 
suffered more before surrendering. We are now well 
prepared for commencing operations against the Castle, 
as, the City being ours, we can turn all of our guns 
against it. One of Col. Bomford's Columbiads has 
been received, and it will be found a very formidable 
addition to otir Armament. 

I think that I am not too sanguine when I assert 
it as my opinion that this celebrated Castle will fall 
in about one week's firing. Genl. Scott will probably 
keep the soldiers here until our forces make one or 
two marches into the interior. But I will make no 
further speculations as I may to-morrow be able to 
give you an epitome of the treaty. 



100 An Artillery Officer 

Luckily I have not been sent to the batteries to-day 
and am not under orders for to-morrow, so that I shall 
get a good night's rest, make up for the loss of sleep 
this siege has caused me. Good-night, may our 
Heavenly Father watch over and protect you. 

Sunday morning, 28th. 

I learn this morning that the Articles of Capitulation 
have been signed and approved, and that the Princeton 
will leave early this morning with Genl. Scott's de- 
spatches. This event is a glorious one for oiu" arms, 
and has been effected principally by Arty. ; indeed not 
a musket has been fired against the City; some skir- 
mishes have taken place with a few lancers and other 
troops hanging around the outskirts of our Camp. I 
shall now take my letter to Genl. Scott's Camp where I 
may learn some facts which may be of interest. 

Genl. Scott is so much engaged that I have not 
approached him. The Articles have been signed, the 
troops are to evacuate the City and Castle to-morrow 
morning at ten o'clock, to lay down their arms, the Of- 
ficers retaining their side arms, to be paroled, pledging 
themselves that neither they nor their men shall serve 
again during the War, unless exchanged, the Officers 
to retain their private baggage, the Castle, Town, and 
Forts surrendered with all their armament and public 
stores, the private property of the citizens to be re- 
spected, etc. 

We are this morning very much disgusted with Com- 
modore Perry, who, after the terms of the Capitulation 
had been agreed upon and signed, wrote a presumptuous 
note to Genl. Scott, demanding the right to affix his 
name to that paper. Genl. Scott has deemed proper to 
admit him to sign it as a matter of courtesy. The fact 



In Mexico loi 

of his signature being affixed will be taken as proof 
positive that he was of material assistance in reducing 
the City, when the fact is, that since he came, but 
little has been done. The Naval battery was estab- 
lished by the orders of Commodore Conner, and Com- 
modore Perry's first official communication to Genl. 
Scott declared that he could not supply their batteries 
with powder. 

Commodore Conner and all under him exerted them- 
selves to the uttermost to assist, but they could, from 
the circumstances of the case, etc., do but little more 
than give us the all-important aid of their sailors. For 
all this, Genl. Scott will in his Order give them full 
credit. I would have a greater right to demand my 
name to be affixed because I commanded a battery 
during the siege, than Commodore Perry for what he 
has done since his arrival ! 

No. I. Juan d'Ulua, Mex. 

Tuesday, March 30, 1847. 

My cousin, Lt. Anderson brought me this morning 
your letters of the 26th Feby. and 5th of March. 
Thanks be to God for his care and protection of my 
treasure. This information that you were well, gave 
me much greater true pleasure than any I have ex- 
perienced for a long time. I find that I must again 
give you a hurried letter, as I learn that a vessel is 
to sail to-morrow morning for the United States. I 
shall therefore give you a few of the details of the 
closing events of the last two days ; which will explain 
why I have changed the No. and heading of my letter, 
or, why I am here. 

The 28th inst. we received orders directing Genl. 
Worth, with his Brigade, to receive the arms of the 



102 An Artillery Officer 

Mexicans at ten a.m. That night, for the last time, 
I hope, in this war, I was at one of the batteries. 
The next morning about sunrise, Lt. Austine came to 
my command, and directed me to retiun to Camp, as 
my Compy. was one of those designated to garrison 
the Castle of San Juan d'Ulua. I immediately re- 
paired to Camp, and at half -past eight marched with 
the rest of the Brigade to a large plain, taking our 
position, the right of our line about one half a mile 
from the main gates of the City, near the road to the 
City of Mexico. 

The Brigade of Genl. Patterson's Division was 
facing us and say a quarter of a mile. We had been 
on the plain but a short time when we heard the 
Mexican bugle, and soon afterwards a salute to their 
flag, which was lowered at Castle and Forts. Next 
was heard the music of approaching bands, and was 
seen the head of their columns. 

The interesting period was now near when I was to 
see a large Army lay dow^n its arms at the feet of its 
conquerors. After much passing on the part of our 
gallant Genl. and his Aids, and infinite confusion on the 
part of our Col., we were put in march, with several 
other companies (destined to garrison the surrendered 
Castle and Forts) towards the City gate — meeting 
and passing close by the advancing prisoners of 
war. 

I will not attempt to describe their troops ; they wore 
dresses of various colors, blue, red, and white predom- 
inating ; none of the companies looked to me like well 
drilled troops; they were, however, a conquered army, 
and, of coiirse, could not have felt or exhibited much of 
the haughty pride of the soldier. Again I may as 
well confess that I did not look at them critically or 



In Mexico 103 

closely, as I was afraid they might detect something 
of triumph in my countenance, when I thought them 
so humiliated by their surrender that none should 
have been exhibited, though we could not help feeling 
it. 

But upon entering the City, having passed about 
five thousand of the Mexican Army before we reachej/* 
the walls, all feelings of pride were gone when I wit- 
nessed the awful evidences of the deadly work of our 
destructive shells; not a step was taken that we did 
not see or stumble over the ruins we had made; in 
many of the houses shells had fallen, and burst, blowing 
everything within them to ruins. The police had 
been entirely neglected, and the smell of the filth was 
very offensive. 

Occasionally we saw men, women, and children 
standing in the doorways or looking from the windows 
upon our rapidly advancing troops ; there was no scowl 
or frown, but on the contrary no smiles welcomed us; 
the countenance bore more of sadness and sorrow than 
of anger. I saw but little of the City; my eye rested 
only on the ruins, and it was with feelings of relief 
I reached the end of the City, where we foimd boats 
ready to convey our command to this place. A few 
minutes landed us on this formidable work. 

A Salute was fired, and the Stars and Stripes raised. 
I then felt that we were in an American Castle. Soon 
afterwards / fired a second Salute to the ''Princeton,'" as 
she passed us on her way home ; this salute was joyfully 
given, as she bears two or three letters to my wife 
informing her of the capture of City and Castle, and 
of God's having preserved my life through the dangers 
of the siege. 

To-day we have received orders that for the present 



104 An Artillery Officer 

the three companies of the 3rd Arty, under Col. 
Belton, are to compose the garrison of this place. 
I shall therefore have ample leisure to study this work. 
We find the quarters excessively filthy; they will not 
answer for our men; we shall have to construct tem- 
porary quarters on top of the present quarters which 
are not sufficiently ventilated. 

The troops in the Castle are said to have lost but one 
man who was killed by the bursting of a shell thrown 
from one of the mortars of the battery. I commanded 
the last day of our firing. We were dealing de- 
struction so heavily on the town that I thought I would 
see if I could wake the Castle, hence the unauthorized 
shell which killed this poor man. 

Of the casualties in the City, I am afraid to enquire; 
most heart-rending scenes undoubtedly occurred. The 
British Consul lost a daughter about fifteen years 
old, killed by the bursting of a shell. The Consul 
does not blame any one but himself as he says he should 
have left the City when Genl. Scott gave them pass- 
ports to do so. 

To-morrow, or as soon as transportation can be 
procured, Genl. Twiggs will advance to the National 
Bridge, thirty miles distant on the road to Mexico. 
Jalapa is, I presume, to be the place where the Army 
will take summer quarters. It is represented as 
enjoying a delightful climate, perfectly healthy, and 
sixty or seventy-five miles from this place. I hope 
that as my good luck has, with the blessing of God, thus 
far prevailed, I may not now have a change and be 
settled down here during the summer months. I have 
no great dread of the yellow fever, but do not wish 
to be separated from the Army when something may 
be done. The 3rd has had the good fortune to have 



In Mexico i^S 

been at the batteries more than half the time the firing 
lasted. 

/ had the honor of firing with " G" Co. and a compy. of 
the 2nd Arty, the first two Salutes ever given by the U. S. 
troops in this justly celebrated work. The United States 
in getting possession of this work, gets many very valu- 
able guns, and a large quantity of Ord. Stores. Many 
of the large gims are old Spanish pieces of the 17th 
Century filled with curious devices and inscriptions. 
The brass contained in the bronze of which they 
are made, is of itself valuable. Here are also fine 
EngHsh, French, and American pieces, some bear- 
ing the well-known stamp W. P. F., West Point 
Foundry. 

As Col. Belton is to take this letter to town, and as 
the boat has just been reported ready, I mus 
Give my love to Father, Mother, and the girls. 

Before I close, let me beg you not to defer 
till the last day. 'T is the worry of writing s« ig a 
letter that gives you pains in your back. Do n ake 
writing so much a matter of business; write r lore 
than one page at a time and close it on mail d Try 
this and resolve not to break your rule of on< ^e a 
day, and all will be well. 

No. 2. Ulua, Vera Cruz, Mexico. 

Thursday, April ist. 
Presuming that I may consider myself as at home 
for a few days at least in this "Fortaleza, " I com- 
mence my daily chat with you on my largest paper. 
The other day I wrote so hurriedly, that I merely 
thanked you for your letters, but my answer like 
most purporting to be such, did not give a reply to i. 
single one of your queries. Some of them are very 



io6 An Artillery Officer 

hard to answer, but still I will give the best I can. 
Before commencing, let me say that I found a sweet 
little violet in the letter, which I have placed among 
my treasures. 

I have said nothing about your joining me, because 
everything has been and still continues uncertain. 
I could not write for you to come on, even if ordered 
to remain at a given place, because the very next 
day might order me to a remote part of the Country. 
What effect the glorious taking of Vera Cruz and of 
this place will have on the question of peace or war, 
we cannot tell. 

Some of the Mexican officers who were received as 

prisoners of war on the 24th inst. said that it would 

protnct the war. They probably spoke from the effect 

ly mortified feelings. Could Genl. Scott now 

led to enter into correspondence with the Govt. 

hope for the best results; a few months might 

the. tore me to your side. Let us hope for the best. 

At "o is, however, exceedingly crippled; her great 
Gerl he who was to rouse the slumbering energies 

of i Vation, the Army's Hero, Santa Anna, has 
beer' 3aten by Genl. Taylor, and here we are in 
peat ^able possession of her strongest tower of defence. 

The value of the armament of this Fortress, and of 
the defences of the City is enormous. One hundred 
and forty good guns are in this place, many of them 
fine iron guns cast at the West Point Foundry, most 
of them good bronze Spanish and French pieces, 
which are very valuable. We find but a scanty supph 
of provisions, but powder, ball, shells and guns, 
howitzers or Columbiads, and mortars in the greatest 
abundance. 

We learn from citizens of Vera Cruz that they had 




>tTiM 



S/»Lvnr^ Ai^WA.. 



GENERAL SANTA ANNA 

From a lithograph 



In Mexico ^^7 

no idea that we were engaged in erecting our batteries 
till a short time before we opened our fires. The ex- 
pectation was that we would take the place by a storm- 
ing party; everything was well prepared for this, 
every street had its barricades, and most of the houses 
had sandbags at the doors and windows, and on the 
roofs. We should have met with very heavy losses 
had we not approached the town as we did. This 
fortress was also prepared for an assault, as the direct 
passage along every part of the work ^is cut up^by 
piles of sandbags forming what we call " traverses. 

My promise to get you to me or for me to take myself 
to you, will, you may be assured, be performed as soon 
as either can with propriety be done. 

Your suspicions about Corp. H^nnel's jaundice 

being yellow fever, were fortunately groundless, as a 

day or two after reaching Tampico he was quite 

restored. To your appeal for me to urge matters 

with my friends to gain me promotion, my last letter 

from camp, and since then the indecent conduct of 

Mr'^ Polk has given a full answer. 'The President or 

his advisers resorted to a practical lie to reward some 

of their pets. The law of Congress declares that the 

President is authorized to appoint an additional 

Major to each Regt., *'who shall be taken from the 

Captains of the Army," and what does he do but 

send to the Senate a man's name for a Captaincy m 

the Army, and probably the very next meeting of the 

Senate, nominates this individual as Major. Such 

conduct is, I think, disgraceful. 

Major Geo. Talcott received in the same envelope his 
commissions as Capt. and Major. Could I do so with 
honor, I would resign to-morrow rather than hold 
a commission under an administration which has, 



io8 An Artillery Officer 

from the first day of its existence, shewn that it used 
all means to destroy the pride and trample on the 
rights of the Army particularly when that army has 
by its gallant deeds plucked its drowning honors 
from the deep. I cannot think with patience of the 
gross acts of injustice practised towards some gallant 
men in the Army. 

Look at the case of my friend, Charles F. Smith. He 
has been foremost in every battle in which he has been 
engaged, and he has been in all save Genl. Taylor's last, 
and he has not even received the notice of an empty 
brevet. A man known and admired by all the Army 
for his well-tried courage, his cool self-possession in 
danger, and his high military attainments, and over this 
man's head are placed a score of men whose sole 
recommendation is that they or their friends have 
proved faithful in their worship of the President's 
party. Enough, enough. 

It appears from letters received in camp from Maj. 
Bliss and some others in Genl. Taylor's army that the 
Illinois and Arkansas Volunteers ran like sheep from 
Genl. T.'s battle-field. Poor Lincoln received his 
death wound in trying to rally one of the Regts. 
Lt. Col. H. Clay, it is said, was deserted after he had 
been wounded, and was lanced by the Mexicans. 
And still Genl. Taylor does not in his despatches 
consign the cowards to merited infamy. This looks 
very much like a squint at the Presidency. 

A quarter past eight P.M. Col. Belton, Adjt. Austine, 
and some others of our officers have returned from 
town; they have sought to ascertain whether we are 
to remain here, or to accompany the Army into the 
interior. Their impression is that not more than one 
Compy. will be left, that this Fortaleza and the armed 



In Mexico 109 

works in the City will be dismantled and the guarding 
of this place be left mostly to the Navy. Should this 
be true, I have a chance of spending the summer at 
Jalapa, celebrated for its healthfulness, etc. 

Capt. Wade has been kept by Col. Gates, at Tampico. 
Capt. Wayne is here, as small as ever. The illustrious 
patron keeps away from my company. The promotion 
of Bvt. Capt. Taylor and Lt. Steptoe to fill the vacancies 
of Bvt. Col. Childs, made Additional Major, ist Arty., 
and Capt. Vinton, killed at his battery, will give the 
patron command of the Compy. he is now serving 
with, which is the Compy. about whose fate your 
letter expresses solicitude. 

Derr is still my right-hand man, and as kindly atten- 
tive as he can be. I approve your suggestion about 
Lassie and will thank you to ask Father to dispose of 
her; he may make his own bargain. Her pedigree 
which is before me, written by the Editor of the Spirit 
of the Times, is, Lassie by Gohanna out of Isabella 
by Sir Charles, her dam by American Eagle, g.g. dam 
by Independence, g.g.g. dam by Jim Crack, g.g. g.g. 
dam by Impd. Sharke out of a thoroughbred mare. 
American Eagle by Impd. Spread Eagle, dam by Im. 
Sharke, g. dam Atalanta by Lyndsay's Arabian, g.g. 
dam Impd. Kitty Fisher. (See Turf Register, vol. 2, 
page 622.) For Independence (grandson of Mary 
Randolph and Annetta) see Turf Register, ditto for 
Jim Crack's pedigree in full. This is horse learning 
enough for you. I send her pedigree in full, because 
any one who wants blood will find that of Lassie as 
pure and good as any stock in the Country. I shall 
dislike parting from her, but I know it is best. 

Maj. Whiting, I hear, leaves Mexico for the United 
States; he is not able to stand a summer's campaign 



1 10 An Artillery Officer 

here. You know, though, how weakly he is. I have 
not heard of Mrs. Hawkins, but she woiild perhaps 
do a good wife's part by joining her husband 

April 2nd. 

Having written at such length yesterday, I shall 
write only a few lines to you to-night. News from the 
City of Mexico informs us that they are there engaged 
in a struggle, of the Peace party under Herrera and the 
Priesthood with Santa Anna, and Gomez Farias heading 
the War party. It is said that the parties have been 
fighting for three or four days in the streets. 

The Army which surrendered to us on the 29th have 
in the progress into the interior committed all kinds of 
disgraceful excesses laying the country waste by pillage 
and fire as they passed in. 

The expedition to Alvarado under Genl. Quitman 
met with no resistance; indeed I learn this evening 
that a deputation was received by Genl. Scott from the 
authorities there, a short time after the departure of 
the expedition, offering to surrender to the Army and 
Genl. Scott. An expedition of about one thousand 
men left this morning for some little place, Antigua, 
some fourteen miles hence, where there are said to be 
seven hundred Mexican soldiers. Could we now ad- 
vance, the chances are that we might march direct upon 
Mexico without having to fire a gun before reaching 
that place. Rumor says that Genl. Taylor is advancing 
to San Luis; doubtful. Col. Riley, another visitor to 
Ulua, sends message to his dear friend the General 
[Clinch]. Time for retiring, will bid you good-night. 

April 3rd. 
I commenced crossing No. 2 but recollecting that 




GENERAL WILLIAM JENKINS WORTH 

From an engraving by J. Sartain, after a daguerreotype 



In Mexico m 

you had but one mail a week, and that a series of letters 
had been sent but a few days since, I thought it would 
be better to give you a letter which could be read, 
without that difficulty always existing with badly 
written and crossed letters. 

As our Fortaleza is separated from Hd. Qrs. by one 
half mile of water, I can only give you the rumors 
which float to us from the City; many of them are, 
subsequently to our first hearing them, found to be 
incorrect; such as are important I will always try and 
give you the last and true version of, but the minor 
ones are not worth re-mentioning. 

I find by orders received yesterday, that we (the 
3rd Arty.) are brigaded with the 2nd Arty, and 4th 
Infy., the brigade commanded by Col. Bankhead. 
This promises that we may accompany the Army into 
the Country, as it makes it Col. B.'s interest to keep 
us with him, and he has much influence at Hd. Qrs. 
Major Genl. W. G. Worth has issued his order dividing 
his old Brigade into two Brigades, he commanding 
them as a Division so that we belong now to the ist 
Brigade, ist Division. 

I shall, if I can obtain a copy, send by this mail 
the first number of the American Eagle published at 
Vera Cruz. It gives a different version to the news 
from the City of Mexico from that written yesterday 
by me; this may be correction No. i of the Camp 
rumors. Genl. Santa Anna is there stated to have 
joined the Priests' party, and opposed Gomez Farias. 
This gives us a President versus his Vice-president. 

Sunday morning, April 4th. 
I was prevented by a succession of visitors from 
writing more than the above note yesterday and must 



112 An Artillery Officer 

write as rapidly as I can till breakfast, as the steamer 
Edith leaves this morning, I hear, for the United States 
and I must have my letter mailed in time. 

The news from Mexico is reported to be, that Santa 
Anna has placed himself in the governmental seat, 
but that, both parties are for prosecuting the war 
(correction No. 2). 

Genl. Scott thinks, I was told yesterday, that tjie 
difficulties between the two Governments will be 
arranged in a few months. Genl. Worth, as you will 
see by this paper, sent by this mail, is Governor of 
Vera Cruz and this place. He is exerting himself to 
clean the city, having pressed into the police service 
some two hundred Mexican laborers. He feeds them 
well, and they, I fancy, do not overwork themselves. 
Confidence seems gradually gaining ground, shops 
which were closed for the first three or four days 
are now opened. 

If the Vols, were at home we could so govern our 
soldiers as to check outrages now hourly committed. 
Capt. Marshall states that as he was walking in the 
streets night before last, he saw just ahead of him 
a man with a musket and before he reached him, the 
scamp struck a Mexican with the butt of his musket and 
knocked him down. This is a slight enormity compared 
with some that have been com.mitted. A Milty. Com- 
mission has been instituted by Genl. Scott to try all 
cases which can not legally be brought before Courts- 
Martial, and I hope that Genl. S. will have every 
convicted culprit pimished as fully as the court and law 
direct. 

Major Wade's Compy. has been ordered from 
Tampico to join the Regt. here. Unless Col. Gates 
can offer very weighty arguments against its being 



In Mexico 113 

withdrawn from that place, I presume that we shall 
enjoy the pleasure of seeing the Major here. Col. 
Gates seems very anxious to increase his regulars, as 
he has detained two compys. of Infy. who accidently 
touched at Tampico on their way here. 

I have omitted mentioning that this grand army 
is honored by the presence of a lady, and who do you 
suppose her to be — no less a personage than Mrs. 

. She visited oin- Fortaleza the day we took 

possession, but I did not beg an introduction. She 
remained on board ship during the siege; where she 
is now, I do not know. I presume that she intends 
accompanying us to Mexico. Could she hear the re- 
marks made about the indecency and indelicacy of 
her husband's having allowed her to come, I am sure 
that her ears would burn. 

I am sorry that Duncan has set his heart upon enter- 
ing the service at this time. Those of us now in, are 
thinking seriously of getting out, so that the new ins 
stand a chance of good promotion. The recent pro- 
motions will place me the third captain in the Regt. 
Capts. Burke and Wade are the two above me. 

As we are soon to go into Summer quarters, I must 
put you on your guard about listening to or rather 
believing the ten thousand reports you will hear and 
see about the health of our troops. I find that letter 
writers who are with us write lies, either through 
ignorance, inattention, or design. I will inform you 
if there be any unusual degree of sickness in our Army. 
Should I be taken sick, you may be pretty well assured 
of my being sent out of the country, as no useless 
mouths are wanted with an army which will have to 
draw its supplies as far into the interior as we are 
going. 



114 An Artillery Officer 

You enquire about our friend Major Whitney; he 
has gone home; he stayed through the siege, and was 
sent off the day before yesterday. It is well that he 
should return; he was present at the siege and capture of 
Vera Cruz, and as this will be regarded as the great 
feat of our war, he returns now satisfied and will find 
in the incidents of the siege anecdotes enough for 
repetition for the last days of his hfe, rapidly, I fear, 
drawing to a close. 

Our friend Austine has been for some time anxious 
to give up his Adjutancy, if he could get anything 
better. He applied on receiving the recent law giving 
a Rgtl. Q. M. to each Regt., for that appointment 
to our Regt. but Lt. Col. Belton, who assumes that he 
has authority to appoint, gave the appointment to 
Lt. Van Vliet (gone to New Orleans sick) on the ground 
assumed by the President towards the Army, in not 
giving appointments in new Regts. to officers of the 
Army, "that Lt. Austine was already well provided 
for." 

Capt. Taylor, who desires to be remembered, has just 
informed me that the letters are to be sent to the 
Edith, and that the boat is to go very soon. I must 
therefore close. That God may bless and guard you is 
my earnest prayer. 

When shall we spend our sweet Sundays together? 
How different this day from what it was when we were 
together. 

No. I. Camp Surrender, Vera Cruz, Mexico. 

April 5th. 

Again in Camp, and very much I assure you, 
to my own gratification. I had been a little ap- 
prehensive that it might be m^^ fate to be among 



In Mexico 115 

those to be left behind, and was delighted to re- 
ceive orders to leave the pleasant quarters of the 
Fortaleza de Ulua, where, though we revelled not in 
the Halls of the Montezumas, we had the honor of 
being bitten by day and night by fleas which might 
have legitimately descended from the Conquerors of 
this Country. Defend me from a summer residence 
in the justly celebrated Ulua! I would, I am certain, 
be very unwilling to rank among its conquerors again, 
were a residence there a necessary consequence. I am 
sure that I would gladly vote for its re-delivery, in prefer- 
ence to remaining there, I mean. Tell Father, no 
disparagement to Florida when I say that Ulua can 
beat her and give her odds, in producing fleas and mos- 
quitoes. I must send a phial of them to the National 
Museum at Washington to be placed among our 
trophies. Stay, I need not do it, the flag and articles 
to be forwarded will carry the breed. 

I have just returned from reporting my arrival in 
Camp to Col. Bankhead, our new Brigade (2nd Arty., 
3rd Arty., and 4th Infy.) Commander, and am sorry to 
find that in consequence of his not getting on well with 
our new Division Commander, Major Genl. Worth, he is 
soon to leave for the United States. The order states 
that in consequence of his health and distinguished 
services in the trenches he has been selected to convey 
to the President the Flags, etc., captured in the City 
and Castle. Col. B. is a selfish man, but is always a gen- 
tleman ; I am sorry to lose him, though I know that he 
is too infirm to accompany us into the interior. 

I also learn that the Edith for which I wrote so 
hurriedly, day before yesterday, has not yet gone, 
and that she will leave to-morrow, hence this hurried 
scrawl in place of one of my old-fashioned family 



ii6 An Artillery Officer 

talks. Having reached Camp about twelve, I dined 
with Cousin Sam, and enjoyed the best dinner I have 
had since I landed — bean soup, rice, tomatoes, sweet 
potatoes, green peppers as a salad with the tomatoes. 

At the Castle we have had fresh beef twice, but 
really, the taste was such that I was not certain it 
might not have been a spare cut from the rump of 
some poor donkey killed by one of our shells during 
the siege. Last night, hunger and the novelty of 
seeing fresh meat made me relish a piece, but this 
morning, I could not go it, like a second bad egg; I 
left the enjoyment to those who liked it. I am told 
that by sending to market early, we can purchase 
vegetables, etc. I think that one of our men must 
wake to-morrow Men matinee! 

I met Dr. Cuyler in the City as I passed through it, 
and was told that he was to do duty with the 3rd. Dr. 
Potter is now our Surgeon; he is, I find, a great favorite 
with some of the 2nd, with whom he has been serving; 
they are both, I believe, good surgeons, and we shall 
be lucky in having either. By the bye, I met young 
Dr. Steiner in the City; he had an army cap and in- 
formed me that he was on duty with the 4th Arty. 

I find that much has been done to cleanse the City 
since I first passed through it. The sandbags have 
been taken down, and some of the filth removed, but 
much yet remains undone ; you see many piles of rub- 
bish, with here and there fragments of the murderous 
shells. Doubtful of the proper name of this Camp, I 
have given it a name, descriptive of its locality, as it 
embraces the ground occupied by our troops on the 
29th, when the enemy laid down their arms. 

No one pretends to guess the day of our departure ; 
the fact is that our knowing ones have been so com- 



In Mexico ii7 

pletely found amiss in their speculations that they 
cease to be regarded as prophets. 

I this moment hear a mocking-bird warbling his 
sweet notes; the Band of the 2nd is practising, and 
this sweet bird seems answering to some notes he loves. 
How many, many miles do those notes bear my thoughts, 
my wishes, from this dull camp. How delightful and 
still how tinged with sadness those thoughts! They 
tell of home, of a beloved wife, but yet of a home that 
I do not enjoy with her. Sing on, sweet bird, there 
is joy mingled with the sadness of your song. I may 
soon be as free as you are and return on wings of love 
to my own mate. Why not? The storm is now over 
and we may expect a calm. Gentle Peace will soon, 
I hope, spread her healing wings over this distracted 
country, and will send us hopping glad to our homes 
again. 

Having reduced my baggage to nearly the campaign 
allowance, you must expect nothing but scrawls from 
me henceforth. My Compy. desk has been deposited 
with some other, etc., in the Castle. I now write on 
the top of my little hand trunk placed on the old camp 
bedstead. My seat is the campstool which was 
broken in our march to Tampa Bay. These three 
articles with my dressing-gown and large pillow have 
been great comforts I assure you. I shall be sorry 
when I have to leave any of them behind. 'T is said 
that we are to have very limited means of transporta- 
tion when we leave for Jalapa. I must manage to 
have my favorites taken by my friends, los medicos, 
whose means of transportation are very liberal in all 
well-appointed armies. 

Heigho, an order has just been handed me stating 
that in consequence of the limited means of transpor- 



ii8 An Artillery Officer 

tation all Compy. and Regt. Books must be left. I fear 
that some of my good friends will have to stay behind. 
N'importe, they were in the Siege; they have had 
glory enough to make all stay-at-home, small trunks, 
bedsteads, and chairs blush for their lack of spirit in 
not having gone into the field at their Country's call! 
Who can conceive what thrilling stories these said 
articles of furniture may attempt telling you some 
of these days when they are in the mood ? 

I must stop cross writing here or you will make 
nothing of the whole letter. As Col. B. proposes 
leaving in a few days, he will probably be the bearer of 
my next despatches? 

No. 2. Camp near Vera Cruz, Mexico. 

April 5th. 
Though a letter was written and sent to be mailed 
since my arrival in camp to-day, I must have my even- 
ing's chat with you before I retire. My conscience 
has reproached me, too, with my ingratitude in having 
omitted in my list of comforts, my mosquito bar (the 
daily admiration of Derr), my coarse towels, and dress- 
ing-gown. Two luxuries I shall have to part with, my 
white wash basin and pitcher; these I can replace, 
however, at Jalapa. The others are home tokens 
containing either your work or executed under your 
directions. An order requiring my separation from 
them would be met with a very ill grace. 

April 6th. 

I had written the first four lines last night, when 

Capt. Taylor and Lt. Thomas came to my tent, and 

talked nonsense till my candle was burnt into the socket ; 

having, unfortunately, no other, I could not write a 



In Mexico ii9 

word more and was compelled to go to bed. The only- 
piece of information communicated was, that we were 
authorized to send and receive letters free of postage. 
This is not much of a boon to me, as the postage on 
my letters is always most freely given. 

This morning I, being for the first time where I 
could indulge that extravagance, tried a little market- 
ing; here are some of the items: sweet potatoes, about 
the medium size, 6^ cents apiece, turnips as large 
as two fists 123/2 cents, tomatoes 2 cents apiece, 
something between a cabbage and a lettuce 63^ cents 
ahead. Everything is very high. Claret $14 a dozen; 
this is a luxury rather too expensive to be indulged in, 
when the necessaries of life are so high. Bacon 18 34 
cents per pound, etc. However, things will either be 
lower, or we will, when we get into the health region 
of the country, get so healthy and so stout as to be 
able to do without them, as we can then eat anything. 

No news from the interior on which any reliance 
can be placed. Col. Kinney, who seems to know every- 
thing, told me this morning that peace was not talked 
of in the country around this place, that Santa Anna 
was approaching the coast with a large army, I cannot 
think that he has so soon forgotten the thrashing Genl. 
Taylor gave him at Buena Vista, and am not inclined 
to think that he is willing to measure his strength with 
the army. 

I am still highly gratified at my change from Garrison 
to Camp; my men are in better spirits than they were: 
here I can hear them cracking jokes and indulging in 
merry laughter, in the Castle they looked like convicts. 
No castles for me. I have to-day another newspaper 
for you, the second number of the American Eagle, con- 
taining some of Genl. Scott's correspondence relative 



120 An Artillery Officer 

to the surrender. The paper is badly printed. This 
press will, I presume, follow us into the interior, so that 
you will probably receive all the numbers of it. Whether 
the paper established at Tampico still exists I know 
not. I had thought of having it sent to you regularly, 
but when I can write regularly, even if I can send a 
letter but once a week, there will be but little left un- 
communicated. 

Yesterday, as the papers state, was a hot day, but 
not hotter than I have experienced in the United 
States. Col. Belton is still in the Castle. I expected 
him and the remainingCompy.of thisRegt. this morning, 
but his Excellency dislikes relinquishing his Governor- 
ship. No news yet of Major Wade's arrival; it should 
be a severe disappointment to him, if he is kept from 
advancing to Jalapa with us. 

Now that I am here, for the last time in my life I 
trust, I am anxious to see as much of the country 
as I can, and would therefore be pleased, if it can be 
done without interfering with my leaving this land as 
soon as possible, to go as far as the City of Mexico. 
I hope that the land bounty will give us good results 
for our winter operations, and that the President will 
increase the Volunteers to a force so respectable in 
numbers as to sweep over the whole country. I will 
now bid you a good-morning, as I must examine and 
send ofE my quarterly papers. Bonjour. 

After tattoo. I cannot retire, without having a 
little chat with you. My old friend, Capt. Wall, 
arrived to-day and has been sitting with me and talking 
over army, and former-day affairs. He takes com- 
mand of the Compy. now commanded by Lt. Steptoe, 
who will, I suppose, be promoted to Capt. Vinton's 
Company. 



In Mexico 121 

Some of the Alvarado expedition have returned; 
they report having found plenty of cannon-batteries 
abandoned. It seems that a midshipman was ordered 
to precede the fleet, with orders to blockade the town. 
But on getting in sight of the place, he took it into 
his head that he would try the range of his gun ; having 
fired a few shots, a boat pulled out from town offering a 
surrender. He ran in, found the batteries abandoned, 
took possession, and, having succeeded so admirably, 
he ascended the river some twenty miles to another 
town, where he met with no resistance. The Great 
Fleet and Army now arrives, and Commander Perry 
finds all done. The Midshipman, Mr. Hunter, he has 
placed under arrest for disobedience of orders, he having 
been sent to blockade, not to take the place. I am sorry 
that the Navy will not have "Alvarado" to add to 
their list of conquered towns. The capture of this 
place draws after it, almost as a matter of course, the 
surrender of all the other towns along the coast. 

April 7th. 
I have just returned from Col. Bankhead's tent ; he 
is very desirous of getting off, and has gone to the City 
to ascertain if a vessel will sail to-day. He will em- 
brace the earliest opportunity and will either sail 
for New Orleans or New York. If he goes to New 
Orleans, I will ask him to take charge of this letter. 
But otherwise I will keep it and add another sheet or 
two before sending it off. Genl. Twiggs is under 
orders to advance to-morrow with his Brigade. Genl. 
Quitman will follow with the 3rd, and we close the 
march with the ist Brigade. The transportation is 
thus far Hmited to one wagon for two companies. 
I hope that by the time we march, the Quartermasters' 



122 An Artillery Officer 

Dept. may succeed in increasing their means, so as to 
be a little more liberal with us. 

A mail arrived, I hear, in the Massachusetts, last 
evening. I must send a man. Yawn, to enquire. I have 
sent him, and hope in a half hour, to enjoy the delightful 
pleasure of reading a letter from you. God grant 
that I may receive good news from my wife. As 
my married men may not be very punctual in writing 
to their wives, it is time for me to make a report to 
enable you to comply with your promises to their 
wives. Corp. Devit, Privates Cramer and Howard 
are all slightly indisposed ; nothing more, I think, than 
chills and fever. Many of the men are on the sick 
report to-day. This is always the case with new 
recruits; they invariably, after an arduous tour of duty, 
will be found on the sick report for some days. And 
in that Castle, the men were prevented by fleas and 
mosquitoes from sleeping. 

Capt. Backus, 4th Infy., relieved Capt. Vinton's 
Compy. yesterday, so that we have the remnant of 
the 3rd Arty, again encamped together. Genl. Worth 
stopped a moment yesterday as he passed, and in- 
formed me that Mrs. Sprague had given him another 
granddaughter. The Genl. looks in better spirits 
since the reception of his Major General's commission. 
I have not had the pleasure of seeing Genl. Twiggs; 
he is too cunning to permit Genl. W. to outgeneral him. 
I fancy that Twiggs's friends will succeed in getting a 
brevet for him, bearing the same date, or an older one 
than Gen. W. I must wait till Yawn returns. 

Afternoon. Yawn returned without bringing me 
a letter. Perhaps I ought not to have expected one, 
as my dates were later than Dr. Cuyler's from Savan- 
nah, but, whenever I hear that a mail has come, 



In Mexico 123 

without reflection that, as you have but one mail 
per week, I cannot receive them oftener, I think that 
I must have a letter or two from you in that mail. 

The order for the commencement of our march 
into the interior is issued. Genl. Twiggs starts 
to-morrow with the 2nd Division. Genl. Patterson 
follows the next day with two Brigades of Vols. He 
leaves one brigade of Vols, and the Tennessee dismounted 
Cavalry until the arrival of their horses. Genl. 
Twiggs and Genl. Patterson will each have forty-five 
wagons for their commands. Every man takes forty 
rounds of ammunition and five days' rations of hard 
bread, and bacon and pork (cooked) for two days. As 
this order omits all mention of us, I presume that 
we stand fast till some of their wagons going with 
their Divisions return, when we shall move honored 
with the presence of our gallant General. 

I thought till this morning that my old friend. Dr. 
Harney, was to remain, but Dr. Porter now tells me 
that he thinks that he. Dr. P., will have to remain, as 
Dr. H. thinks the mountain air necessary for his health. 
The Dr. has not been well since he has been in this 
country. I am afraid that he is breaking down. If 
Dr. Porter leaves the 3rd Arty. I presume that Dr. 
Cuyler, who has been medical purveyor till recently, 
will take charge of us. Dr. Wright may remain ; Dr. 
Porter says he is half inclined to do so. 

Poor Col. Bankhead has relinquished command, 
and is to sail home to-morrow, with the cannon and 
flags. Genl. Scott sends, I think, twelve beautiful 
bronze cannon. One I selected for West Point. I do 
hope it will be sent there; its date is 1685, "Le Mor- 
dicant" beautifully chased, etc. Col. B.'s departure 
places our Brigade under the command of Col. G , -)h 



124 An Artillery Officer 

— th. Infy., a man deservedly unpopular with his 
officers, notoriously setting a bad immoral example 
to his juniors. Genl. Scott, whom I have not seen since 
the surrender, looked very well when I last saw him. 

If to-morrow be not too excessively hot, I propose 
going into the City for a short time. I have very 
little curiosity. Many have spoken of the marks of ruin 
they have seen, of the vast amount of public stores, 
etc., to be seen, but I care for none of these things. 
If I could find any little mementoes and had a favorable 
opportunity of sending them to you I wotild move as 
briskly about it as any of them. 

I heard this morning that Major Talcott had been 
importuning Col. Bankhead to make special mention 
of his services in the trenches. I would cut my tongue 
out before I would allow it to commit so great an act 
of indelicacy. Col. B. will not, I hope, do it. He has 
already been induced to insert the names of two Top. 
Engineers, who were at one of the Batteries, mentioned 
because they volunteered, not because they did as 
much or more than others. The fact is, that at the 
Batteries there was but little room for individual dis- 
tinction. I will now lay this down for to-night. 

Night. Capt. De Hart came in at dusk, and has just 
left ; it is now too late for me to add much to my letter. 
I find from the Capt. that the Govt, patronized him 
in the publication of his work on Courts-Martial, by 
taking one hundred copies! Col. Bankhead is to leave 
in the morning, but at what hour I cannot learn. Lt. 
Andrews will go to the City in the morning, and I will, 
unless I hear that the Col. sails either late in the day 
or not until the next day, give him this letter. Good- 
night. May God bless and protect you. Bonsoir. 



In Mexico 125 

April 8th. 
A friend waits for my letter. I must close it for fear 
of missing this mail. Nothing new, Genl. Twiggs is 
moving. Good-night. Love to Father and all the 
family. 

No. 3. Camp near Vera Cruz, Mex. 

April 8, 1847. Night. 

My letter closed this morning. I hope was in time 
for the mail, though I am a little apprehensive that 
my old friend. Col. Bankhead, left too early. The 
least delay on the part of the gentleman entrusted 
with it must have caused it to miss a mail. I do not, 
however, attach as much importance to my letters now 
being too late for mails, as I know that your heart 
has been relieved of a heavy load by the reception 
of my letters announcing the progress and termination 
of the siege. 

During the Siege, or at any time previous, and 
subsequent to my arrival, when I knew how important 
it was that you should hear from me regularly and 
frequently, I regarded the chance of missing a mail 
as a very serious affair. Now, you should have 
nothing on your mind to worry about. I am about 
leaving the seaboard to go to a place as notoriously 
healthy as any in the world. Even had I been or- 
dered to remain here, I think by prudence I might 
have remained and got through the summer safely. 
I have not attempted a description of Vera Cruz be- 
cause really I have seen nothing of it. A detail as 
member of a Genl. Court-Martial will take me there 
to-morrow and many consecutive days : so that I shall 
perforce learn something of it, and will give you such 



126 An Artillery Officer 

sketches as I think interesting. I had intended writing 
a good long letter to-night, but was interrupted by the 
arrival of Major Graham and two other gentlemen 
who spent the evening with me. I must now close, 
as the night is far advanced. 

Note. The Genl. Court-Martial has been ordered 
.to meet in our Camp. 

April 9th. 

Reasonably good news from Washington, as the 
President has, in his benevolence, condescended to 
give to friend Capt. Charles P. Smith', two brevets. 
He is now a Bvt. Lt. Col., a very slight reward for 
his many gallant acts. 

I have been so long engaged in Court-Martial 
duties to-day, having finished the trial of three officers 
(for not very serious breaches of discipline), that I 
feel very little like writing and will retire very soon, 
hoping that we may not be so much pressed to-morrow, 
as I shall then make a respectable addition to my letter. 
I fear however that the visit contemplated in the first 
part of this letter must be deferred till our return from 
Jalapa, as I think we have cases enough to be tried 
to engage us during the time we are to remain here. 

Before closing, to shew you the variety we have in 
our reports, I will give you yesterday's and to-day's 
reports. Yesterday, Jalapa and Puebla de los Angeles 
declared their independence of the Central Govt, and 
have determined to treat for peace. To-day, Santa 
Anna is at the Flat Mountain between Jalapa and 
Puebla with an army. Good-night, and may God 
bless you. 

April loth. Saturday Night. 

Hearing this morning that a steamboat was to leave 



In Mexico 127 

for New Orleans to-day, and not having time to finish 
my letter, I enclosed and forwarded this morning's 
paper. On the Court-Martial we have made great 
progress to-day, as we concluded the cases of the two 
officers who were to make their defences this morning, 
and tried twelve soldiers; most of them plead guilty 
and their cases were so simple as to leave no room 
for consideration or doubt. 

This afternoon I strolled into town for an hour, 
but by the time I searched the part where the fashion- 
able shops are, it had become so dark that I could 
not see. I did not see anything curious or rare in 
the shops I was in, and what I priced was extravagantly 
high. They are determined to make us pay dearly for 
our whistle. I do not blame them; it will absorb all 
the profits of their stores for years, to repair the damage 
we have done them. Never, never do I wish to be one 
of a besieging army again. And faith, I have no great 
desire to be one of the army besieged ! 

Though much has been done to cleanse the streets, 
they are yet filthy. Our Surgeons are busy estab- 
lishing a general hospital here. The Army moves 
with so little transportation, that we have to leave 
our sick behind. Dr. Porter says that he will send 
them to their companies by the earliest opportunities 
after we leave. In some of the companies in camp, 
there is a good deal of sickness — some of the cases have 
proved fatal. Thus far we have had no dangerous 
cases; all of my men will, I am convinced, recover as 
soon as I can get them into the mountainous region. 

I have heard no camp news about Santa Anna 
since yesterday. To-morrow, we should hear from 
Genl. Twiggs's Brigade; we certainly shall if he hears 
of an opposing or a threatening force. 



128 An Artillery Officer 

Bvt. Major Backus, commanding Ulua, has, by the 
working of some fifty Mexicans, succeeded in making 
it a much cleaner and more habitable place than it was 
when we were in it, but, bless him, he will be unable to 
remove either the fleas or the bedbugs ; the latter, I find, 
colonized very extensively in my bedding, whilst we 
were there. I think of sending some of these Ulua curi- 
osities to Washington. To-morrow being Sunday I will, 
if the day be not too warm and I can conveniently 
leave camp, go to one of the churches in the City. 
Good-night. 

Sunday, nth. Morning. 

Yesterday a negro fellow was hung for a heinous 
offence, having been tried and sentenced by a Milty. 
Commission, composed exclusively of Vol. officers. 
The man was a servant to a Vol. officer. This morning 
two Mexicans are found, one dead and the other 
nearly so. This devilish deed was undoubtedly per- 
petrated by some scoundrels among the Volunteers 
as a repayment for the loss of the negro. I sincerely 
hope the perpetrators of this act may be brought to 
punishment. 

The morning is so warm that I have no intention 
of attempting my visit to church in town to-day. 
I have therefore gone through with an hour Sunday 
routine of readings (reading my part distinctly and 
your part silently), and after a loll of an hour am now 
ready for the duties of the day. 

In town yesterday I met one of Genl. Worth's 
A. D. C.s who said that Genl. Worth spoke of our 
Commands moving to-day or to-morrow, as there 
are not one quarter wagons enough here to move with 
the limitation of baggage already imposed. I do not 



In Mexico 129 

think it possible for us to march. I doubt if we can 
leave earlier than the 15th inst. One Brigade of 
Vols, and one Regt. still remain; they should march 
before we do, as they belong to a Division already 
on the road. 

The Doctor has just sent six of "G" Co. to the Genl. 
Hospital in the City. Cramer (the husband of the 
pretty woman who came with the recruits) is the only 
married man among them. His wife has, I believe, 
left Tampa Bay, with Mrs. Hannel and Mrs. Devit, 
for-Tampico. I advised Howard to tell his wife to 
remain where she is. Women are, as I anticipated, 
a great plague to their Captains in the field. So 
little transportation is allowed, that if permitted to 
accompany the troops they must purchase or steal 
some poor horse or ass to carry their baggage, A 
woman with one child can thus get on tolerably well, 
but when they have more, they soon find it impossible 
to move in that way, and are left or sent back by some 
return train to some large depot. 

No mail yet. I fear that some of yoiu" letters are 
lost, as I hear that one of the vessels wrecked on the 
beach near oiu" first camp, on the 26th March, con- 
tained a large mail. Lt. Thomas has stopped in to 
inform me that Major Wade has arrived. 1 hope that 
the change from Tampico to this place will be agreeable 
to the Major. I do not think that he will take a very 
violent liking to our Lt. Col. who is occasionally as 
unamiable as he sometimes shews himself in the com- 
pany of his amiable spouse. 

The addition of the Major's Compy. to our little 
battalion is very acceptable, as we were too small to 
be respectable in so large a command. I will now 
make my bow until this afternoon. 



130 An Artillery Officer 

Night. Major Wade has arrived; his Compy. has 
taken its position in our Camp. Lt. Johnson is with 
him ; he looks very well, and will, I hope, continue to 
think himself so. The order is out and been received 
by us, for our march to-morrow. The order designates 
twelve for the hour of march, so I presume that we will 
not make more than nine or ten miles. 

I hear that Genl. Twiggs sends word back that Genl. 
Santa Anna is fortifying himself at some position this 
side of Jalapa. I can scarcely credit the opinion that 
he seriously intends giving us a fair, good fight. If he 
be there, it may be with the view of making a show of 
defence and then entering into terms with us. God 
grant that this may be the case, as blood enough has cer- 
tainly been shed to satisfy the honor of both Nations, 
and a treaty formed at an early date would restore the 
most of us to our families very early this fall, and per- 
haps some Companies would be sent home at once. 

Report says that Santa Anna has his cabinet with 
him, and that Genl. Labrega is also there. Why his 
Cabinet is there would be a question worthy of con- 
sideration were it certainly true. 

The afternoons are sufficiently pleasant; as at St. 
Augustine the hottest part of the day is in the morning, 
say from seven till nine; after these hours by keeping 
out of the sun the temperature is very agreeably 
pleasant. 

Genl. Scott will, I presume, either accompany us 
to-morrow, or follow us the next day. On every 
account it is highly important that we should move 
towards the mountains. One reason that we get 
off earlier than I anticipated is that over two hundred 
mules arrived to-day, thus giving us unexpected 
addition to our means for transportation, and again 



In Mexico 131 

our Division moves before some of the Vols, left here 
by Genl. Patterson's Division. 

I omitted mentioning the arrival of Capt. Winder, 
who landed this evening with his Compy. of twenty- 
eight men. He finds a detachment of recruits from 
which he will, I hope, fill his Compy. I have not 
seen him — indeed our Army covers so much ground that 
I do not attempt visiting any one. We meet our 
friends occasionally on duty, or I see them as they pass 
my tent going to, or returning from town. 

As I may have an opportunity of finishing this 
sheet to-morrow before the hour of starting, when there 
may be something of interest to add, I will only en- 
croach further by bidding you good-night. I must look 
to a judicious reduction of my baggage. The allowance 
is, however, more liberal than was anticipated, as one 
wagon is allowed to each Company. 

April 12th. At night. 

We are now reduced to our travelling allowance of 
tents, etc. Our Camp presents a singularly scattered 
appearance, each camp, where two hoiurs since there 
was a full allowance of wall and common tents, now 
formed with only three small tents. Our baggage 
will soon follow. So large an army requires a very 
large train for the transportation of its ordinary 
supplies. I have retained as many of my comforts as 
I could reasonably, seeing how little accommodation 
was allowed for the men. My camp bed, mosquito 
bar, and trunk, with the morning gown, old cloak, and 
big boots go with me. My library is not very large — 
my two Sunday books and one Vol. of Tactics con- 
stitute all. 

Thank God I have received a letter from you dated 



132 An Artillery Officer 

March I2th. But, my wife, you imagine a thousand 
dangers, and our Heavenly Father leads me unharmed 
through all to which I am really exposed. I think after 
having received news of our almost bloodless victory 
here, that you cannot but place entire confidence in 
that God who has so constantly heaped his blessings 
on both of us. 

Look around us and see how many are, though labor- 
ing under heavy afflictions, bearing up cheerfully 
under circumstances which would seem to leave them 
no room for hope. They are frequently rewarded 
for their great faith in this world, and look, with as- 
surance to their better rew^ard hereafter. I would 
not have you conceal your feelings from me; on the 
contrary, I feel happier in knowing that you describe 
your feelings as they really are, than I would be to 
detect your attempt to conceal them. Think of all 
that has really passed, see how many dangers your 
love has conjured up, and despond no more. 

To-morrow we leave for a healthy region, where all 
the invalids will rapidly recover. Be not uneasy at 
paragraphs you may read in the papers about the 
Army. You may not hear from me as frequently 
as you have hitherto, but I shall write by every op- 
portunity. And now be of good cheer, and rely 
upon our Heavenly Father. We make a very early 
start to-morrow, and I must close to-night. That 
God will continue to guard and bless you I sincerely 
pray. 

13th, four- thirty A.M. Packed and ready for a start. 
Genl. Twiggs writes word that he thinks he will reach 
Jalapa — this shows that there is not much to be appre- 
hended from the expected opposition. Good morning. 

Mr. Thomas and Maj. Graham beg to be remembered. 



In Mexico 133 

No. 5. ' Camp about sixteen miles from 
La Puente Nacional, 

April 14th. 

I believe that my No. (5) is correct, the last I 
wrote the morning of our departure from Vera 
Cruz. Yesterday (our first day's march) was a very 
severe one. Leaving about half past five A.M. we 
marched along the beach, say about two and a half miles, 
and then turning perpendicularly to the left marched 
through heavy sand hills, a deep hot road, about three 
and a half miles to our first watering place. The day, or 
rather that period of it in which we executed the latter 
part of our march, was excessively close and hot. 

The country was a succession of cups of sand; the 
only redeeming thing about this part of the march, 
was that we heard the sweet, sometimes plaintive, 
sometimes cheerful notes of the birds in the recesses 
of the glades. Here we halted sometimes, but the 
men had become so much exhausted that by the time 
we reached our encamping ground, say eighteen miles 
from Santa Cruz, nearly one half of the men were 
absent. Some soon came up, but at tattoo, many 
had not yet arrived. To-day in consequence of the dis- 
ordered state of the Command, we have only marched 
nine miles. Enough of this march for the present. 

I acknowledge, with cheerful gratitude to God, the 
receipt of your letter of the i8th. The letter is in 
much better spirits than its predecessor and cheered 
me greatly, I assure you. I wish your letters to 
indicate exactly your feelings, and I can then know 
how you really are. You distress me much more by 
an attempt to conceal what I know full well you feel, 
than a full and frank disclosure does. 

' No. 4 is missing. 



134 An Artillery Officer 

Our camp is surrounded by some of the most beauti- 
ful flowers I ever saw. I send in this a few Hlac flowers 
growing on a large vine which overhangs my tent. 
I have collected some seed. The favorite of our 
Florida home grows here in great variety, but I do not 
find any as sweet as those (opopanax) you used to 
collect at Tampa Bay. 

The road to-day has been hilly, the hollows however 
not rich; we passed Genl. Santa Anna's residence 
about three miles back, a fine field of corn was growing 
near it. I merely had a glimpse of the house — a large 
white one with tiled roof. His Excellency owns the 
country on both sides the road from about nine miles 
this side Vera Cruz to the City of Jalapa; he owns a 
good deal of bad land. 

We learned from some persons returning from Genl. 
Twiggs's Brigade, that he intended attacking Genl. 
Santa Anna at nine o'clock this morning. I expect that 
he will think better of it and wait for us to come up. 
Major Genl. Patterson has not yet come up, Genl. Pillow 
is with Genl. T. They may decide upon making 
a bold stroke for glory before we reach them. Genl. 
Scott who has gone ahead of us will probably reach 
the advance early to-morrow, when the decision will 
be made by him. I have this moment finished my 
dinner and tea. The twilight is so short here that 
I must close as it is now nearly dark. We start at 
early dawn in the morning. Good-night. 

Camp about i6 miles from La Puente Nacional. 

El Plan del Rio. 

April 15th. 
Twenty minutes to five p.m. An early start with 
a well-conducted march brought us to our present 



In Mexico , i35 

camp, at the National Bridge, before twelve o'clock. 
The Brigade would have advanced farther, but as no 
water could be obtained until we reached Genl. Twiggs's 
camp, sixteen miles, and as Lt. Col. Duncan stated that 
his horses could not go so far without water after a 
morning's march, it was determined to halt here. 

17th. Thus far had I written day before yesterday, 
when I went to visit an old fortification intended to 
command the approaches to the bridge. The fort is 
an old one on a high hill, the side towards the river 
and our camp is inaccessible, the other side pretty 
well defended by musketry fires. This place we learn 
had been furnished with eight pieces of Arty, which 
were withdrawn the day before Genl. Twiggs left for 
Jalapa. The scenery at the bridge is beautiful, com- 
bining enough of the grand to make it interesting to 
all classes of admirers of scenery. The bridge is like 
all of the Spanish works of art constructed during their 
stay in this country, well executed and on a magni- 
ficent scale. 

At tattoo. The Brigade received orders to march at 
one A.M. this morning. Reveille was beat at twelve 
and the men were formed at the appointed time. 
After some time, a Staff Officer came up with directions 
to allow the men to take what rest they could. Every- 
thing being packed, very little rest was taken. 

At half-past four yesterday afternoon we took up 
our camp to march six miles to camp. We marched 
that distance, and were told whilst continuing our 
march, that as we could not get to water, the Com- 
mand must march to the camp of Generals Twiggs 
and Pillow. We had a most fatiguing march, night 
marches are necessarily so, but this was rendered par- 



136 An Artillery Officer 

ticularly so from the officers and men having been de- 
prived of their rest the preceding night, and from the 
fact of their not having filled their canteens for a 
long march. 

We arrived here, say eighteen miles, at twenty 
minutes to two this morning. At eight this morning 
a command was sent to occupy a hill which commands 
some of the enemy's batteries. The hill was foimd 
occupied by the enemy, but they were driven from it 
by Col. Harney; three officers were wounded — Major 
Sumner, 2nd Dragoons, slightly in the head, Lt. Maury 
left arm with bones broken below the elbow, Lt. May 
and another officer are also woimded. 

To-morrow morning we are imder orders to advance. 
As our men will have, I hope, a good night's rest, I 
feel confident of their doing good duty. I shall write 
you the earliest moment, if by the continued blessing 
of God, my life be spared. I place as ever all my trust 
in Him who has thus far saved me in numberless dan- 
gers. As I must be fresh I will now retire to rest, 
praying our Heavenly Father to protect and guard 
my wife and that He will soon receive you into the 
little select flock constituting His church elect upon 
this earth. The name of oiu: camp is "Camp near 
El Plan del Rio." 

FoRTALEZA Nacional de San Carlos de Perote. 
Thursday, April 22nd. 

Since the preceding was written I have been so con- 
stantly and sometimes so fatiguingly engaged that I 
did not have an opportunity of sending my letter 
immediately after the fight of the eighteenth, and this 
is the first mail of the departure of which we have been 



In Mexico i37 

notified, and now I shall be so pressed for time that I 
shall have but half an opportunity of scribbling a few 
lines. 

The newspapers will, I fear, long since have informed 
you of the heavy losses sustained by us at the battle 
of Cerro Gordo. The number of killed and wounded 
is probably not far from 500. One of my young 
friends, Lt. Dana, 7th Infy., is, I fear, dangerously 
wounded, I was not in the engagement, as by some 
mismanagement we were delayed, and work intended 
for us was done by the 2nd and 7th Infys. The enemy 
was completely routed, leaving in our possession thirty- 
five pieces of cannon, about 6000 prisoners, small arms 
and ammunition of all kinds in the greatest abundance. 

The position occupied by the enemy was a very 
strong one. I may say that had we moved along the 
road to the attack, their position could not have been 
carried by our forces ; but Genl. Scott, by judiciously 
turning the flank of their main batteries, and carrying 
by assault a high battery in the rear, which commanded 
their advanced works, saved the lives of our men and 
conquered. 

These works were carried, and the battle over by 
half-past ten. The enemy ran in such disorder as 
to leave behind and on the road all their muskets and 
even their eatables. Had Genl. Scott's orders been 
complied with, not one of the enemy would have 
escaped. 

We are now in the celebrated Castle of Perote where 
Genl. Santa Anna and other patriots have been oc- 
casionally confined. We shall remain a few days 
before advancing. Every soldier had left this place, 
though it is a very strong one. Let us unite in thanking 
God with all our hearts for His continued protec- 



138 An Artillery Officer 

tion. I must close as it is so dark that I can scarcely 
see. 

No. 6. Fortress of Perote. 

Friday, April 23rd. 

I closed my letter so hurriedly last evening, that 
I fear some portions of it were illegible, if not un- 
intelligible. I think that in this, I will go back, and 
take you over the parts of our road so unceremon- 
iously run over. I mentioned, I think, that Genl. 
Twiggs's Division was ordered to take a height which 
had been found unoccupied by the enemy, and one 
which commanded one or two of the batteries of the 
enemy. 

The enemy, it seems, discovered their mistake in 
not having fortified this hill, and were found by the 
Division in large force upon it. It was gallantly 
carried by Col. Harney, with some loss on our side, 
and it is now reported, a loss of 174 on the part of 
the enemy. 

This was the engagement of the 17th which Santa 
Anna has the impudence to claim as a victory. The 
1st Brigade received orders on the evening of the 17th 
to march at early dawn on the morning of the i8th 
(Sunday, I am sorry to say). Our Brigade, 2nd and 
3rd Arty, and 4th Infy. were ordered to support the 
attack on the enemy's battery. 

The road from Battery No. i to No. 3, is cut out of 
the solid rock. The bank on the left side of the road 
in the rear of this part of it is too steep in many places 
for a man to go down to the water's edge; the little 
stream runs nearly parallel to the road. This may 
give you some faint idea of the ground, etc. As I was 
so busily occupied the day of, and the day subsequent 



In Mexico ^39 

to the engagement, that I could not inspect the posi- 
tions, I have been compelled to rely for my sketch 
on the information of others. The sketch is perhaps 
wrong in some points, but may on the whole be regarded 
as sufficiently accurate for a non-military reader. 

We left our Camp early the morning of the 1 8th 
and halted when the head of our column had reached 
the ranch C, for the Vols, under Genl. Pillow to come 
up. They halted a moment near us, when Col. Haskell 
of Tenn. gave his men a spirited address. They then 
filed, by heads of companies, into the woods and we 
resumed our advance, a portion of Lt. Col. Duncan's 
Battery in front of us. We turned off the main road 
to our right at D, and had proceeded but a short dis- 
tance when we heard sharp musketry firing on our left; 
this was Pillow's Brigade engaged with the enemy. 

This Brigade fell back, and Genl. Pillow sent a staff 
officer to Genl. Scott to request that some Regulars 
be sent to him. He is a brave man and was deeply 
mortified ; he was wounded. 

In a short time the road became so rough and steep 
that we were delayed more than half an hour in taking 
two of the guns up a steep hill in the road. Hear- 
ing cannon firing in our front and it being found that 
Duncan's battery could not be taken forward in time 
for us to participate in the fight, we were ordered to 
the front. 

The enemy now discovered us and threw a few shot 
and shell at us. No one was injured. Staff Officers 
now galloped back and called on us to advance, as we 
were very much wanted. Now commenced the most 
fatiguing work I ever had. The fire become very 
lively in every direction, and we had to gain our 
position on the hill where Battery No. 5 was situated. 



HO An Artillery Officer 

With men exhausted by the heat and exertion of run- 
ning, we struck the base of the hill, our troops calling 
for us to advance and the Mexicans calling on their 
side for reinforcements. 

Before we reached the top our colors were flying 
on the flag staff, the hill had been taken. Duncan's 
Battery had kept us out of the battle. The Brigade 
under Genl. Shields had divided, a few were with him 
in his attack on field Battery No. 6, where he was 
mortally wounded by a grape shot, gallantly leading; 
his men then fell back and received a second discharge 
from the Battery before they advanced again. 

The troops in Batteries Nos. 2 and 3 were now sum- 
moned to surrender; they asked for the appointment 
of commissioners and for time. They were told that if 
they did not surrender in ten minutes, the attack 
would be made on their Battery. We had now our 
forces in Battery No. 5, whose fire turned on them 
would soon have silenced them. They surrendered 
five Generals and about 5000 men. 

Genl. Santa Anna's equipage, and about $30,000 
in his chest, were found in or near his tent; his 
carriage was also found, he having left the battle- 
field early that morning or the night before. An 
immense supply of ammunition for Artillery and small 
Arms was found in caverns, etc., near the batteries. 
The field was strewn with the dying and the dead. 
The hill of Battery No. 5 presented many horrid sights — 
I never want to see such again. Our men gave the 
poor devils what water they could spare from their 
nearly exhausted canteens. Our Surgeons amputated 
the arms and legs of some of the wounded. 

The action was over by half-past ten o'clock. The 
remainder of the day was employed in pursuit, and in 



In Mexico 141 

collecting the wounded. We slept that night near the 
base of the high hill No. 5, the Compy. in the road, 
and your humble servant with the Adjt. in his tent, 
pitched on the right of the road at the spot marked 
by a dot. o 

Early the next day we resumed the advance, halted 
about twelve near Genl, Santa Anna's residence — that 
is, one of his residences, called "Encerro. " An Officer 
was stationed here by Genl. Patterson or Twiggs 
to protect the property. We marched about 12 miles 
farther and made a late and uncomfortable encamp- 
ment. 

The next day we reached the beautiful and celebrated 
City of Jalapa (only think of it, nearly all the jalap 
used as medicine is taken from this place) . Marched 
our dirty and wearied troops through as if we designed 
making a display, halted in the outskirts of the City 
till three p.m., when we again took up our line of march 
leaving the 2nd Div. in that City. 

We encamped that night near a large cotton factory ; 
the night was intensely cold, ice formed in our basins. 

Off again the next morning early, road ascending and 
rough ; about eleven we came to a village at the entrance 
of a pass which they had commenced fortifying, but 
seized by the panic spread by the runaways from the 
battle of Cerro Gordo, they had abandoned it, leaving 
seven or eight pieces of cannon on the ground. This 
would have been an ugly pass, as it was in the midst 
of the lava of an old volcano, exceedingly rough and 
sharp ; its rough jagged points would have impeded the 
advance of our troops and kept us under their fire. 

Passing over this volcanic road, we soon found 
ourselves in the region of the pine. The scenery was 
exceedingly grand and picturesque. Encamped that 



142 An Artillery Officer 

night at Las Vegas, water excellent, night cold. The 
next day we entered this celebrated work early 
in the day, the troops having hastily abandoned it the 
preceding day. We are now in the region of the cedar. 

Perote, Mex. 
April 26, 1847. 
As this is merely a note to inform you of our leaving 
this place this morning I do not number it with my 
regular series. I have a letter nearly finished in my 
trunk which I packed thinking I would have an opportun- 
ity of mailing it from our point of destination, but as a 
mail may leave here to-day or to-morrow, I regret not 
having kept that letter out, and closing it here. The 
drum has just beat for the assembling of the 1st 
Brigade. To-day we march about eleven miles, to- 
morrow thirteen, on the road to Puebla, then we await 
further orders. Genl. Scott is expected here to-day. 
The news from the Capital told by the diligence yes- 
terday is cheering. Everybody was panic-struck by 
the reception of the news of the battle of the i8th. 
Genl. Santa Anna had not been heard from; those 
formerly most "loud for War," now talk of peace. I 
must now close. May God Almighty bless and protect 
you. 

No. 6 continued. The preceding sheet I had written 
and it had been packed away in my trunk, when I 
penned so hastily a note to you from Perote this morn- 
ing. I now write in my tent at our Camp about eight 
miles on the road towards Puebla. We must not, 
however, leave Perote without devoting a few lines to 
remarks upon the country between Jalapa and Perote 
and also to its celebrated Castle. 



In Mexico H3 

Until we reached Jalapa we saw very little to interest 
the land speculator. At Jalapa everything indicates 
a richer, better soil ; the land is well situated also for 
cultivation. You see here along the roadside as well 
built stone fences as the Yankees boast of. The 
houses, too, are better built. The climate also seems, 
and is reputed to be, delightful. 

A rapid ascent, however, soon brings you into a region 
rather cool to be pleasant to those who come up rapidly 
from the hot lands of Vera Cruz. The land is rich, 
both in approaching the volcanic stream mentioned 
in the preceding part of this letter and after leaving 
it. The scenery is beautiful, regularly-sloped hills 
rise on every side, and in the distance may be seen the 
snow-covered peak of Orizaba; the intervening valley 
as deep rich soil as to be found anywhere; corn, oats, 
barley, rye grow well here, peaches and cherries were 
seen; with them you see the Agave Americana and 
other plants we see as curiosities. 

At Jalapa the coffee bush grows. When you reach 
the plain of Perote, the soil is evidently less rich and 
shews sand and clay. The town of Perote has, as 
far as I can ascertain in marching through one of its 
streets, very few respectable-looking houses. 

The Fortaleza, or Castle as it is called, is situated 
on a plain, about half a mile from town. The main 
work is a square, surrounded by a large square, the 
angles of which are bastioned, the whole having a 
ditch around it. The walls of the inner work which 
form the exterior walls of the quarters are three feet 
thick. This place has been at various times the prison 
of some of Mexico's greatest men. The turn of the 
political wheel has taken them from the palace to this 
prison. There were confined the Texan prisoners. 



144 An Artillery Officer 

In the Chapel we found the tomb of Mexico's first 
President, Genl. Victoria. Generals Morales and Lan- 
dero who commanded at Vera Cruz were released 
from a confinement ordered by Genl. Santa Anna, by 
the evacuation of this place by the Mexican troops. 
"Genl. Landero had a conversation of about an hour's 
-" length with Genl. Worth since we came here. He 
wished to know what our Govt, desired. He says 
that Santa Anna has allied himself with the sans- 
culottes, that the better instructed class desire peace, 
that if the United States do not press too hard upon 
them, and can only save Mexican honor, that all may 
yet be well. He says that the last battle has been 
fought. It is now becoming dark so rapidly that I 
must close. God bless my wife, etc., etc. 

April 28th. Tepayahualco. Our Brigade is accom- 
panied by Duncan's Battery and Lt. Col. Smith's 
Battalion of Light Troops; we are twenty-five leagues 
(say fifty-five miles) from Puebla, where we are, I 
presume, to take up summer quarters, that is if we do 
not go on to Mexico. For really our being here is 
so unexpected to me, that I know not where we are to 
stop. Our orders are to remain here until further 
orders. 

I can not speak positively of the whereabouts of 
Genl. Scott, or of the other Divisions. One Compy. 
of our Division with two pieces of Arty, under Lt. 
H. Brown, were left at our Camp of yesterday, the 
remainder of our Division was left under Genl. Worth 
at Perote. 

Genl. Scott was expected to reach Perote the day 
after we left. I suppose that the whole Army will 
gradually come on. They may halt at Perote and at 



In Mexico i45 

some other places for the coming up of our train with 
provisions, and also to secure and obtain supplies from 
the country. Thus far everything we obtain is paid 
for liberally, probably at higher prices than the usual 
ones of the country; this is however mere conjecture. 
This I do know, that individually we pay enormously 
for everything we purchase. 

¥/e are now, and have been for the last forty 
miles, in a volcanic country. On every side you see 
the uneven and jagged peaks of old volcanoes, or pass 
along the side or over the beds formed by the lava. 
These volcanoes have not been extinguished long 
enough for the lava to become sufficiently decomposed 
to support vegetation, and consequently we rarely see 
any approach to a tree. 

The cactus here and there encroaches up the jagged 
side of some mountain. We are beyond the growth 
of cedar. Orizaba still shews us his white head. I 
hope that our soldiers will, if permitted to rest here 
a few days, get well. So sudden has been our transition 
from the burning sands of Vera Cruz to the cold region, 
and this change has been accompanied by so much 
and continued exertion, and with so great a loss of 
sleep, that our Command has been sadly reduced. 
Ten of "G" Co. are on the sick report to-day, none 
seriously sick. Most of these cases have been in fact 
produced by a cause I have not enumerated, viz., 
daily change of the kind of water drunk. 

You must not be astonished at not receiving letters 
from me as regularly as you see statements of our 
movements published in the papers. Look at things 
as they now are; you may see weekly accounts of 
Genl. Scott's being with the Army at such a date ; now, 
when he sends his mails we know not. Again express 



146 An Artillery Officer 

men are sent back, I understand, without escorts, 
and I think we shall soon hear of some being killed. 
I fear that in that way we shall find our correspondence 
sadly interfered with. 

If the Mexicans have any gallantry, and that they 
have has long been their boast, they will send all 
except public letters to some place whence oiu- expresses 
may again take them. Though I do not know when this 
letter can go, I shall close it now and send it to Genl. 
Hd. Qrs. whence they will send it by the first man who 
returns to Perote. Then again it will wait for a chance. 

I have not mentioned who our Brigade Commander 
was — it is Col. Garland, 4th Infy. Of our Battalion 
Commander I have become heartily tired. He is 
eternally cross, snapping and snarling at everybody 
and at everything. He has been messing with me, 
but I gave notice to-day that the mess was broken up. 
I will have my meals undisturbed by ill temper. Every- 
body is disgusted with him. Pity it is too, as when he 
chooses he can be an elegant gentleman. 

Friend Lt. Col. W. W. Graham, nth Infy., is with 
us. He pays me a short visit nearly every day. 
Our young friend Thomas has a very ugly cough. I 
had one touch of fever and ague, but two doses of 
quinine mastered it, and I am now feeling as bright 
as usual. 

Santa Anna has not gone to the Capital. 'T is said 
that he is with a handful of troops at Orizaba. Mexico 
has no Army. May it please God to end this war, 
and to restore me to my own beloved family. 

No. 7. Tepayahualco, April 29th. Morning. 
Your sweet letter was received last night after I 
had closed and sent to Hd. Qrs. my letter No 6. I 



In Mexico H7 

cannot allow the return to Perote of an express from our 
Camp without acknowledging its receipt and thanking 
you most sincerely for so charming a letter. And so 
you wonder whether I thought of you on the 26th of 
March? My answer you have ere this received. 

I pray to God that your mind may have retained the 
sweet tranquillity which was beaming on it when you 
wrote, and that you have not been unnerved by the 
numerous rumors with which the papers must have 
been filled about the battle of Cerro Gordo — a battle 
more valuable in its results than any which has been 
yet fought in Mexico. 

I do not feel like underrating, nor do I intend to 
underrate, Genl. Taylor's glorious victories, but they 
differ from Genl. Scott's at Vera Cruz and Cerro Gordo 
in this: in Genl. T.'s actions, but few unconditional 
surrenders of prisoners have been made. By both of 
Genl. Scott's about 17,000 Mexicans have been bound 
not to take further part in the War. Indeed, by the 
surrender of their Arms, they have been incapacitated 
from so doing. 

We hear that Genl. Santa Anna could raise a large 
army of the young men of the country, but that he 
cannot obtain Arms for them. We shall soon find 
out what Mexico intends doing; at present panic 
pervades every place. Whether it will rouse the people 
to great exertions, or cause them more wisely to turn 
their thoughts to sweet peace, no one can tell. 

The policy pursued by Genl. Scott is, I think, pro- 
ducing a favorable result on the common people. 
Nothing has been forcibly taken. I think that as 
far as I can see the laboring Mexicans care very little 
about the War, and that, by a continuance of this 
course, after a few months they will feel more secure 



148 An Artillery Officer 

in their persons and property than they have ever 
been under their own authorities. 

I fear that there are occasional violations of Genl. 
Scott's orders, on the part of the Volunteers, and in 
a small way, on the part of the Regulars, but all these 
combined amount to much less than they have been 
compelled to bear from their own soldiery. 

To-day we shall receive a supply of fifteen days* rations 
in wagons from Vera Cruz ; this neighborhood can furnish 
our large force with very little of any kind of provisions. 
We have passed over a very rich belt of land, and 
are now where there appear to be no large farms. 

The little market in this village contains very little. 
I went on a foraging party this morning, and the 
amount of my purchases was one pork's backbone, 
twenty-five cents, and eight eggs, twenty-five cents. 
For an old hen, its monster master wanted me to pay 
seventy-five cents. I give you these as samples of 
the prices. Occasionally you can get mutton, and a 
few prematurely ripe tomatoes. When we get to 
Puebla, we shall again be in the land of plenty. I shall 
expect to fatten rapidly. The great article of Mexican 
cookery is the black bean. Frijoli and red peppers 
grow everywhere. 

I am sorry to tell you that an application has been 
made by Lt. Thomas for orders to leave Mexico on 
account of his health. He has a very distressing cough, 
is unfit for duty, and, if he remains here, will, I think, 
be useless for a long time. Capt. Taylor has, also 
applied for the same indulgence: he is incapable of 
marching, from varicose veins. The 3rd cannot now 
muster an officer for duty with the companies here. 
Where all our officers are, 't is hard to find out — some 
are with the northern portion of the invading Army. 



In Mexico H9 

April 29th. Evening. 

I received this evening your letter of the first, 
full of apprehensions and alarm. You did not 
express yourself as freely as you did in some of 
your previous letters, and I regret it because I know- 
that you would have felt more comforted and resigned 
after having done so. I know what your state of 
mind was, but thank God, the agony is now over, 
and you have since felt how sweet it is to put your 
trust in "Him who alone can save." 

I had intended keeping this, and writing a long letter, 
adding something to it daily, but the reception of two 
letters in two days is an event which deserves special 

notice and a prompt reply. Friend is, I regret 

to say, on a little frolic to-day. I must give him a war 
talk to-morrow; he is just beginning, I fear, a long 
spree. A word from Father in this out of the way part 
of the world would control him greatly. He thinks 
all the world of his old General. 

One of our officers returns to Perote to-morrow; 
I shall send this letter by him, hoping that it may be 
rapidly forwarded to you. Fearing that the express 
may leave too early for me to add to my letter, I shall 
close it to-night. My eyes are not strong enough to 
write well by the light of a Mexican tallow candle, 
which is all we can get here. 

No news of an advance. We are as quiet here among 
these people as if we were old friends. How thoughtful 
of you to keep my old Mother informed of her stray 
son. Thank you. I ought to write to the family, 
but, when I take up my pen, it seems that the lines 
must be addressed to you. 



150 An Artillery Officer 

No. 8. Tepeyahualco, Mex. 

May, I, '47. 

Word has just been sent me that a mail would 
leave in half an hour so that I shall have time to write 
you a very few lines. Of news there is nothing, except 
that this morning a messenger from the British Minister 
at Mexico passed through this place. He says that 
the Mexican Congress is divided equally, one half 
for making and the other for opposing a peace. He 
says that there will be no more fighting, that there 
are no troops at Puebla, and that in the City no 
resistance will be made. God grant that we may soon 
have peace and that his predictions about no more 
fighting may be verified. 

Genl. Scott has not come up, indeed we have no 
news from the rear. The climate is here so cold, 
particularly at night, as to be most unpleasant. 
Yesterday, as I informed you, one of our officers was 
sent back to Perote on duty ; he will be up to-morrow, 
and will bring us information from Hd. Qrs. I am 
tired of remaining in this miserable place. Nothing 
is raised here, that I can see, but the Maguey plant, 
from which pulque, the cider of the country, is obtained. 
Everything is brought on the backs of donkeys. 

To-morrow, Sunday, is the great market day. We 
shall see what the neighbors will bring in for our money. 
These people are the veriest Jews I have ever met. 
Regarding us as enemies 't is natural that they should 
make us pay dearly for everything, but it seems to me 
that our commanders, on arriving at a town, should 
demand from the Alcalde the customary prices, and 
arrange a tariff accordingly. 

Orizaba is in distinct view. I do wish you could 
enjoy with me some of the grand views we oc- 



In Mexico 151 

casionally have on our marches. Not a day passes 
that I do not regret that I have not cultivated the little 
talent I have for sketching. Fearing that the mail 
may go suddenly, I must now close. 

Tepeyahualco, Mexico. 

May 1st. 

(The priest spells this word Tepe.) The note sent 
off this morning was written so hurriedly that you see 
that I do not count it as one of my letters. That 
yours of the 1st April about the desponding tone of 
which I wrote in mine (number 6) should have been 
written at that time is not at all surprising, as you 
had just heard of the immense loss of life attending 
Genl. Taylor's great battle at Buena Vista. But the 
reports of Genl. Scott's victories at Vera Cruz and 
Cerro Gordo will, long ere you receive this, shew 
you that matters are managed here differently. 

There is not a better soldier or braver man than 
Genl. Z. Taylor, and he will gain victories, but those 
who fight under him must incur with their Genl., 
who is nearly always in the front of the battle (where 
he should not be), the full dangers of an open direct 
attack. Genl. Scott has his battle-fields well reconnoi- 
tred, and avails himself of all the advantages which sci- 
ence or skill may suggest. Maj. Wade, whose tent is next 
to mine, has come in and commenced talking to me so 
that I have to stop writing for to-night. Good-night. 

Sunday, May 2nd. 1 1 o'clock. 
I have just finished my morning's readings in 
which I always try to make myself think you take 
your part, and resume my pleasant labor of writing to 
you. 'T is a labor of love. 



152 An Artillery Officer 

Genl. Scott has, we hear, ordered two of the new 
Regiments to join our Army; the nth Infy. is one; 
which the other is, I have not heard. I would Hke 
very much to have Duncan in our Brigade, but the 
chances are that the 13th has been ordered to Point 
Isabel; if so, he will be with Genl. Taylor, an excellent 
friend of Father's. Lt. Andrews states that at Perote, 
whence he returned yesterday, there are no rumors 
about our advance; indeed, it is there said that Genl. 
Worth has received orders from Genl. Scott to make 
no movement until he receives orders. 

Genl. Santa Anna, report says, is trying to organize 
an Army at Orizaba which is said to be a very pretty 
village in a fertile region of country. We may be 
ordered to take summer quarters there, instead of at 
Puebla. I should prefer the latter place as it is a large 
city and one where our men might be made more 
comfortable than in a smaller place. Here, the 
majority of the population (evidently nearly full- 
blooded Indians) live in houses made by driving a 
few posts in the ground and thatching the sides and 
tops with a species of palm-leaf. Some few live in houses 
built of rough stones forming very thick walls, plastered 
inside and outside, having tiled roofs; the best floors 
are formed of large bricks about fifteen inches square, 
or made firm and hard with a kind of cement. The 
buildings are of one story ; those I have been in, have 
very little furniture, and that of the rudest kind ; around 
the walls you find almost invariably, pictures of saints, 
occasionally a painting, generally coarse, colored 
engravings. 

The other morning I was offered, seemingly as a 
great treat, one of their dishes, a little pork cut in 
fine pieces, rolled in commeal dough, and boiled^ 



In Mexico 153 

well covered by a com shuck. It tasted pretty well, 
and I answered their enquiries by telling them it was 
muy bueno. Perhaps I went to market this morning 
too early. I saw nothing there but some chickens, 
a few eggs (three cents apiece), and onions one cent 
apiece. 

I hear that our Brigade Commander saw Lt. Johnson 
(you saw him at Ft. Moultrie) going to church this 
morning and that he expressed dissatisfaction at his 
going alone^fears that officers may be murdered in 
church! What next? Lt. Thomas is not improving; 
indeed, I think that if he be not sent off very soon, that 
he will die ; he is a very sick man, and has never been 
well since he had an attack of brain fever at Monterey. 
He ought to have left the country then, but could not 
be induced to do so. I will now put away this letter 
till after dinner. 

Having mentioned that I would stop writing till 
after dinner, I may as well state what our dinner 
was, particularly as it was a very respectable dinner and 
very well cooked for a camp. First course, vermicelli 
soup, rice; second, midlings and greens, and fricassee 
(beef, bacon, and onions), pickles; third course, Mame 
pear and musk melon, sauce, sherry wine and sugar. 
The melon was a present. Thus you see that I am 
not starving here. The we composing our Mess 
embraces Wade and myself. Lt. Thomas is a third, 
but is too sick to join us at table. Here is where we 
live; the area is surrounded by a rough stone wall 
about twelve feet high; it was formerly a room, but 
the rafters and roof having decayed, it is now exposed 
to the light of the stars ; the floor is of cement. 

Genl. Scott's order for the troops to hold them- 
selves in readiness to advance as soon as our expected 



154 An Artillery Officer 

supply train reaches Jalapa with provisions from Vera 
Cruz, was received this morning. He says that as 
it will soon be impossible to keep up the communication 
with Vera Cruz, it will be necessary for the Army to 
look to the country for its means of subsistence. He 
therefore urges the necessity of conciliation and kind 
treatment towards the countrymen. States that 
nothing must be taken from them without payment 
being made, denounces those who act differently, 
as enemies of their Country, etc. So I presume that 
we shall soon leave this place. This all of us will re- 
joice at, as the water is so bad here that our sick 
lists are daily increasing. If this be a fair sample 
of the water in volcanic countries, I prefer al- 
most any other. The parade drum is now beat- 
ing, so that I must stop again, resuming, if I can, to- 
night. 

Monday, May 3rd. 

Lt. Totten, son of Col. Totten, Engineers, one of 
the new appointments, has just joined us. He came 
up the day before yesterday from Vera Cruz. I 
am sorry to learn that Genl. Scott was indisposed, 
when he, Lt. T., passed through Jalapa. He says 
that the Genl. was writing when he called to see 
him but that he had been suffering from chills and 
fever. This is certainly, to persons coming from 
the seacoast, a sickly climate. The people of the 
country look well and hearty, but our sick list is 
still increasing daily. 

Lt. T. informs me that some companies of the new 
Regts. had already arrived at Vera Cruz, that there 
were many cases of dysentery among the men, as with 
us, but no yellow fever. Col. Wilson is, I believe, a 



In Mexico i55 

very good police officer, and will do all in his power 
to keep the City clean. 

I omitted mentioning that my right bower, Derr, 
had been unwell ; he is now nearly well and will, I hope, 
continue so. Old Wilson is with us — he was unwilling 
to be left behind. Most of the "G's" left in the 
Hospital at Vera Cruz are now, I learn by a note from 
Dr. Porter, on their way to join me. I regret not 
finding Cramer's name among them. As he is a handy 
man and pretty good clerk. Dr. P. may have kept 
him, though well enough to'^have been sent with 
the rest. I hope, for the sake of his poor wife, 
that my surmise may be correct. Capt. Lee, Engi- 
neers, thinks that we shall leave this place in a few 
days. 

Our Surgeons have urged Genl. Worth in the strong- 
est manner to remove the troops from here as soon 
as possible. Genl. Worth still remains at Perote, and 
as such representations have been made to him about 
our unhealthiness, I fancy we shall not see him until 
we are to resume our advance. 

At Perote the Ord. Officers are engaged in breaking 
up the small arms found in the Castle and in collecting 
and preparing the powder for transportation. The 
number of muskets collected at Cerro Gordo and at 
Perote must have been very great. As they were of 
no use to us, it was perhaps wise to order them to be 
destroyed. 

Mr. Thomas says that he feels somewhat better to- 
day. Dr. Satterlee came to see him yesterday; 
he says that he is not dangerously ill, but that if his 
disease be not soon checked he will become so. An 
answer to his application to be ordered to the United 
States may be received to-morrow. 



156 An Artillery Officer 

May 4th. 

The return train which has, I learn, just arrived is to 
take a mail back, and I regret most deeply to say 
that we have been notified that it will be our last 
opportunity for some time for writing home. I hope 
that this will not be so, but at present it has the sanc- 
tion of the highest in authority here, as our Brigade 
Commander told one of our officers this morning that 
after this mail was despatched, it would be along 
time before another would be sent. Should you there- 
fore fail to receive letters as regularly as you have 
hitherto, you will know the cause and not be uneasy. 

We expect to leave for Puebla in two or three days, 
and no resistance will be made. The inhabitants, we 
hear, are preparing for our reception — cleaning and 
whitewashing their barracks, baking bread, etc. I hope 
that when the citizens of Mexico find our army es- 
tablished in our summer quarters there, they will 
feel the inutility of resistance, and to save themselves 
the disgrace of having to surrender their Capital, they 
will make peace. God grant that this may be soon 
accomplished; of one thing you may be well assured, 
that I will eagerly embrace every opportunity of 
writing to you. 

We are now so far in, that I presume if peace be made 
soon after we reach Puebla, we can hardly hope to be 
able to leave the country until late in the Fall ; so that 
I must make up my mind to abandon all idea and hope 
of seeing you for many a weary month. 

Seven of the men left at Vera Cruz arrived this 
morning. I am sorry to learn from them that Cramer 
was very sick when they left. There had been no 
cases of yellow fever in the Hospital where my men 
were. I was afraid that our Doctor would send some 



In Mexico i57 

of the Company to the Hospital at Perote or Jalapa. 

I have been overlooking your letters and find that 
commencing with the one of Jany. 7th I have them 
for each week to the 1st of April. Can it be that after 
one or two mails more we are to be cut off from our 
communication with Vera Cruz, and to be deprived 
of the invaluable blessing of hearing from our families? 
I cannot think that Genl. Scott will not, soon after 
reaching Puebla, make some arrangement for receiving 
and forwarding mails. 

Mr. Thomas, who since he has had a hope of leaving 
the country has gradually improved, will leave to- 
morrow morning. Capt. Taylor will probably start 
with him. They do not know whether they will be 
allowed to go directly to the United States or have 
to stop at Perote or Jalapa. Perote, except the 
superiority of its water, is not much better than this 
place. I envy the gentlemen the happiness which 
awaits them on their return home, but would dislike 
to be sent there on account of ill-health. 

I send in this letter some seed of the most beautiful 
yellow tomato I ever saw. We may have the same 
kind in the United States, but I have never seen them. 
I have several other kinds of seed, but as some of them 
cannot well be sent in letters I have them stowed away 
in the top of my old trunk. The com is, in this region, 
very small in its grain, which is very long. There is 
a very pretty variety of small black com, some of which 
I will bring home. Barley is cultivated here in 
greater abimdance than any of the small grains; the 
grain and straw is the principal food for horses. I may 
not have time in the morning to write any more; if 
I can I will cross-write a little, and will therefore close 
my letter now. 



158 An Artillery Officer 

Do not be over-anxious at not hearing from me; 
believe no newspaper stories from the Army. I 
cannot resist giving you here one or two instances of 
misstatements to shew you how much we who are 
in the Army are deceived by false statements. Genl. 
Shields and Lt. Dana have both been reported dead — 
information positive — the last news is that they are 
both at Jalapa and with favorable chances of recovery. 
Fortunately, I did not write to Lt. Dana's mother, as 
I was near doing. Placing with me your whole 
confidence in God, let us hope that it may soon be 
His pleasure to restore me in good health to you. 

May 5th. Before breakfast. The express goes early 
this morning, so that I shall barely have time to bid 
you good-morning. Dr. Satterlee has decided that 
Capt. Taylor is not to go. Lt. Thomas leaves with 
the express. Good-bye, etc. Shall write to my dear 
Mother by this mail. 

No. 9. Tepeyahualco, Mexico. 

Wednesday, May 5th. 
Although I wrote this morning, and warned you 
that I might not have an opportunity again of soon 
forwarding a letter to you, I cannot refrain from 
pursuing my old and pleasant task of writing to you. 
This day one month ago, I left Vera Cruz. One 
month before that, I reached Anton Lizards. What 
important events have taken place since the last men- 
tioned dates ! How different might have been my fate, 
but for the all-sustaining power and mercy of God ! I 
pray that I may become daily more and more fervently 
thankful for His mercies, and may feel my entire 
dependence on Him more fully than I have hitherto. 



In Mexico i59 

Preparations are being made here for the reception 
of the remainder of the Army, but I have not heard 
that any information had been received as to the time 
they might be expected. I presume that as the ac- 
commodations are very insufficient here, even for our 
present force (about 1500 men) we shall advance 
as soon as another portion of the Army arrives. As 
Puebla is a large city, containing between sixty and 
seventy thousand inhabitants, I suppose the Army, 
or the larger portion of it, will make a display by 
entering it in one body. 

We hear that a large mail is on its way, but why it 
does not come as rapidly as rumor, which reports its 
slow movement, I cannot tell. I hope it will soon 
arrive, as I am very anxious to hear from you. Your 
next letter will give me news of you up to the eighth 
of April and may perhaps inform me when you will 
leave for Habersham. I fear that I may have changed 
the direction of my letters too soon. But anxious that 
a letter should reach Clarkesville about the time you 
did, I changed my direction, hoping to give you an 
agreeable surprise. 

I have just seen Genl. Scott's order, dated Japala, 
May 3rd, announcing that Genl. Patterson's Division 
was to commence its march by brigade on the next 
day. Genl. Worth also announces to his Division 
that it is to resume the march in the advance of the 
Army. 

His order alludes to the cowardly conduct of the 
Mexicans in assassinating some of our men, perhaps 
some stragglers on our marches. Our men frequently 
lag behind the column, sometimes through fatigue, at 
other times for the purpose of pilfering or drinking. 
I am not at all astonished at their being murdered. 



i6o An Artillery Officer 

From the tenor of these orders I presume we shall 
leave here on the 7th, and I have not the least idea 
of seeing a soldier enemy between this and Puebla. 

The Mexican Congress have, it is said, already- 
adopted resolutions as to what they will do when our 
Army marches to their Capital. Poor deluded Nation — 
the people are not fit for self-government, and we are, 
perhaps, instruments intended to open this country to 
the world and finally to establish enlightened and free 
government in it. Education must first be spread 
among the masses, who are now ignorant and idle. 

That our Army will be followed by active and en- 
terprising men, who will remain in the Country, I 
do not doubt. They will give a stimulus which will 
finally produce good results and effect great changes 
in the people and Country. God grant that 7 may soon 
complete my task in this great work, and be restored 
to my native land and my own beloved fireside. 

I have been listening this afternoon to the band 
of the 4th Infy. (now under command of Lt. Col. 
W. W. Graham, nth Infy.) and am better pleased 
with its music than with that of any of the bands 
with the Army. The former leader of the 4th Arty. 
Band, Bloomfield, is at his first station, the recruiting 
depot. New York Harbor. Since his departure, that 
Band has deteriorated very much. I must now bid 
you good-night. Bonsoir. 

Thursday, May 6th. Early this morning, four French 
gentlemen arrived from Puebla. They report that 
no opposition will be made, that the inhabitants of 
Puebla expect us, and do not know what to think about 
our not going on. They do not appear to be men of 
consequence, but may be intended to learn what o\ir 



In Mexico i^i 

expectations and plans are. They speak of going to 
Jalapa, and say that a pledge given by Genl. Scott 
to the Church Party will have a good effect, that the 
War Party are circulating reports that we are inimical 
to their Church, and that we will not respect their 
persons, or protect them in their rights and property. 
As this pledge is no more than the Genl. has already 
given, there will be no difficulty on that point. 

The Mexican Congress is still in session and it is 
said to be issuing commissions to Guerrilla officers. 
If they commence that species of warfare, and wage 
it in the cruel manner their relations did in Spain, we 
shall be compelled to adopt a mode of warfare totally 
abhorrent to our feelings and wishes. God grant that 
I may never be engaged in so conducting a war as to 
be compelled to give no quarter, to take no prisoners. 
I do not believe that the Mexicans will attempt a 
game in which they are so certain of being the heaviest 
losers. 

No mail yet. No news to-day from Genl. Hd. 
Qrs., though we all expect orders this evening to be 
ready for our forward move to-morrow or the next 
day. Although our men have crowded the sick 
lists since we arrived, the time here has not been lost, 
as by our daily drills we are getting our raw soldiers into 
some semblance of military men. "G" Co. is now 
on paper loo strong, but I rarely have more than 60 
on duty. 

No case here of serious sickness, but cases sufficiently 
important to render it necessary for them to be excused 
from duty. What has become of my old friend Capt. 
Burke? The last heard of him was that he was re- 
cruiting his Compy, in North Carolina. 

The provision of the Bill passed by the last Con- 



i62 An Artillery Officer 

gress, granting one hundred and sixty acres of land 
to all who serve during the war, must, I think, have 
soon presented him with enough recruits to fill his 
Compy. If he has succeeded in completing his Compy. 
I suppose we shall soon have him with us. We will 
then have in our little Battalion the three senior 
Captains of the Regt. 

My joumeyings are all plain matter of fact joggings 
on. We start early in the morning, and after a certain 
number of halts, stop at some designated spot, where 
we make ourselves as comfortable as we can for the 
night. As it is now near Retreat, I will close for to- 
night. 

Friday, May 7th. 4 p.m. A Command of two Com- 
panies of Infy. and one of Dragoons was sent forward 
this morning on the Puebla road, some fifteen miles, to 
bring an Alcalde, or some of his subjects, to task for 
preventing the inhabitants around his town from bring- 
ing provisions to our troops here. This move will, I 
presume, be totally unexpected, and his being brought 
down and probably sent to Perote may have a good 
effect. Our paying the Mexicans liberally for what 
they bring will induce them to come, our punishing 
those who prevent them, will shew them that we know 
and feel our strength, and that it will be exerted when 
necessity demands it. 

The Command will not return till sometime to- 
morrow. No mail and no positive information about 
one. Col. Garland received, I hear, a letter from Genl. 
Worth last night informing him that we were not to 
advance as soon as had been anticipated. What 
important or unimportant events have caused this 
delay is left to prolific conjecture. 



In Mexico 163 

It is amusing to hear the various reasons assigned 
for everything, the object of which is not understood. 
Some surmise that the express, whose passing my last 
letter announced, had important communications 
from the British Minister for Genl. Scott, etc. I care 
very little what takes place, so that a peace be soon 
honorably secured. 

I have said very little of the temperature and ap- 
parent climate of this place. The climate is not unlike 
that where you are (Habersham'). Exposed to the 
sun during the day, between nine and four it is very 
warm, uncomfortably so, and at night it is sufficiently 
cold to require at least two good blankets as covering. 
How our poor men are to sleep out exposed, as they must 
be on the march from this place to Puebla, to the chilly 
night wind without tents and some of them without 
blankets, I cannot imagine, without their being made 
sick. 

At Major Wade's request, as he said it would gratify 
his wife very much, I wrote her a note the other day, 
informing her that we were messing together, and 
that we had promised to take care of each other. 
She is, you remember, a sister of Bvt. Major Robert 
C. Buchanan, and is said to be a remarkably fine 
woman. The Major will not, I fear, return home so 
as to be present at his daughter's marriage. He is 
an excellent-hearted, and one of the most liberal men 
we have with us. 

I much prefer living as we now do, to being in the large 
Mess I had when we arrived. Now we are sociable. 
Then our Commander worried me at every meal by 
some display of petulance, or by uttering some ill- 

' Genl. Clinch's seat in the northern part of Georgia in the moun- 
tains. 



1^4 An Artillery Officer 

natured or ungentlemanly remark. He now enjoys 
his solitary meal alone. The Adjt. eats with one of 
the Compy. officers. 

The market people are becoming much more rea- 
sonable in their prices; we now buy a dozen eggs for 
eighteen and three quarters cents, occasionally five 
cents for a pie ; onions, sixteen for six and one quarter 
cents, and bananas, seven for six and one quarter cents. 
Chickens half grown, eighteen and three quarters 
cents each. These prices will do very well. The fresh 
meats we get are generally hog and sheep — the hogs 
always skinned — most funny-looking things they are 
with their jackets off. In this region, we scarcely ever 
see a cow. 

I must now go out and take a look at the drill; 
our men get enough of it, two hours before dinner, and 
two in the afternoon. Our Regt. is the only one in 
the Brigade whose companies have to drill in the 
morning. 

Saturday, May 8th. 

Anniversary of the battle of Palo Alto, the beginning 
of the War. Poor Mexico, what has she not lost during 
the past year ! The progress of oiu* Arms has been as- 
tonishing. The Companies sent out yesterday have 
returned. They found within twelve miles of us a very 
fertile valley, where an abundance of grain, mutton, and 
pork can be obtained for our troops. 

A fine village, San Juan de los Llanos, was visited. 
There they found marks of refined civilization — ice- 
cream, champagne, and nice candies. Barley and 
com are extensively cultivated there. 

The Prefeto had escaped; he is the man who is 
responsible to the Govt, and was the man the Command 



In Mexico 165 

went after. The Alcalde professed friendship, and 
promised to send provisions in. 

One man, the rich man of the valley, was stubborn 
and surly. The Officer in command told him that we 
wanted supplies, and that he would be paid well for 
them if he would bring them in, but that if he did not 
send or bring his grain, etc., in to-day, that a Command 
would be sent for them, and that no remuneration 
would be made to him. He promised to send in what 
he had. 

Genl. Scott's order directing the discharge of the 
Volunteers whose terms of service are about expiring 
was received this morning. Major Genl. Patterson 
returns to the United States with them. He is com- 
plimented. Brig. Genl. Quitman, Mississippi, remains 
in command of four Regiments of Volunteers of the 
last levy. The 6th Regt. of Infy. will join us this 
evening. Whether this indicates an advance, we 
know not. 

Major, I ask pardon, Lt. Col. Graham has just 
informed me that the express was to leave immediately 
for Perote. Fearing that I may lose the chance of 
this mail, and be thus thrown back for several days, 
I will now close. 

No. lo, Tepeyahualco. 

Saturday, May 8, 1847. 
No. 9 was despatched this morning. I hope it may 
be sent rapidly to its destination. 

Soon after it was mailed. Col. Garland, our Brigade 
Commander, paid me a visit and shewed me an order 
from Genl. Worth directing him to send a Compy. of 
the 3rd Arty, back to Perote, to constitute part of its 
garrison and also a letter from the Genl. A. D. C. sug- 



i66 An Artillery Officer 

gesting that Capt. Robert Anderson would be a proper 
person to send, ist, "for his peculiar fitness," etc. , etc. I 
immediately told the Col. that I appreciated the com- 
pliment very highly, but I was convinced that the 
climate of Perote would not suit me, and that I thought 
Dr. Satterlee, our Senior Brigadier Surgeon, would so 
decide. We immediately went to see the Dr. who 
promptly said no, it would not do to send me there. 

My friend the Dr. has thus saved me from being 
incarcerated in that Castle for the summer. I cannot 
bear the place — it reminds me of a penitentiary, and 
the rooms even were very uncomfortable to my feel- 
ings during my stay there. A regular fever and ague 
place. Capt. Taylor was then ordered, and he has 
already left with his Company. 

I am desirous of going as far into the interior as 
any one goes. But as our Battalion is reduced to 
three companies I fear we may be broken up to garri- 
son different places along the road. The 6th Infy. 
will arrive here this evening, the remainder of the 
1st Division will stop to-night at San Antonio, be- 
tween Perote and this place; to-morrow Genl. Worth 
is to arrive and we are to resume the march the next 
day, the loth. 

We hear nothing of our long-talked-of mail, but hope 
that it may come with a large train. Genl. Scott's order 
mentions it as being on its way from Vera Cruz. 

By the bye, I think I did not mention that a train 
bringing up about $500,000, was attacked the other 
day at Santa Fe, the first watering place this side 
of Vera Cruz. The rancher os followed the train about 
three miles, but were finally driven off. Supplies 
have been sent in to-day from San Juan de los Llanos. 
From the representations given of that place, it seems 



In Mexico 167 

to me unfortunate that we did not send a command 
there soon after our arrival here; it might have added 
much to our comforts in the eating Hne. 

I dined to-day at Brigade Hd. Qrs. and will, to shew 
you that their bill of fare was not much better than we 
have, tell you what our dinner was. Chicken soup 
with rice, pretty good ; loaf corn bread (a rarity and 
treat) and wheat bread; second course: roast turkey, 
stuffed, plenty of onions — turkey not quite done — rice. 
Dessert, pineapple. I confess to two things that we 
cannot place on the table : claret wine and a fine glass 
of sherry, in drinking which we did not forget the 
battle of Palo Alto. 

Genl. Quitman, we hear, has been promoted to a 
Major Generalcy, and is the only one of our recent 
Brigadiers who is to remain in Mexico. Generals Pillow 
and Shields, both wounded, will, I presume, soon return 
as heroes to their homes. No news from Puebla or 
Mexico to-day. 

Sunday, May 9th. 

The order is out for our march to-morrow. The 
Brigade takes the lead, with the Compy. of Dragoons 
under Capt. Sibley, Lt. Col. Duncan's Battery of 
Arty, and the train of Heavy Ordnance — one battering 
train; on the day following, the other Brigade of this 
Division. The remainder of the Army will, I presume, 
follow in the same order. 

Genl. Scott must certainly soon establish some regu- 
larity in the means of transportation and transmitting 
intelligence to and from home. I have amused myself 
to-day in reading the newspaper accounts of our 
landing at, and investing Vera Cruz. The enemy's 
fortifications, possession of which was taken by our 



i68 An Artillery Officer 

troops the day we landed, must have been Chateaux en 
Espagne, Hterally Castles in the air, for we never 
heard of them before. 

My letters will appear tame, compared with the 
graphic accounts of our famous letter- writers. I wish 
that those gentlemen would stick to their desks at 
home. The Savannah papers appear determined to 
make heroes of all her sons ; it will tax the ingenuity 
of their editors to raise the Navy as high as the 
paragraphs we have seen indicate their desire to do. 

I presume that you have read Genl. Scott's report 
of the capture of Vera Cruz and also of the battle 
of Cerro Gordo; we shall not see them till returned 
to the Army by the United States papers. The 
Genl. has not sent us his order on the victory of Cerro 
Gordo. I do not know why he delays; he must, ere 
this, have received returns and reports from the Com- 
manders of Divisions and Brigades, furnishing materials 
for an order. 

Genl. Worth has not arrived yet, but he will, I 
presume, certainly come up this evening. We start 
to-morrow with five days' rations, two days' cooked, in 
the men's haversacks. Another of the men left at 
Vera Cruz came up to-day. I am sorry to hear him 
say that he does not think that three of those who 
were left behind will ever join the Comp3^ again. 
This campaign has been a very trying one on the poor 
soldier. The sick report of our Battalion for this 
morning was about sixt3^ I have had one man sent 
back to the Hospital at Perote, and regret it as I 
think he will not be much improved by the change. 

We have not heard of or from Mr. Thomas since 
he left us; he will continue to improve so long as he 
flatters himself with the hope that he is to leave the 



In Mexico 169 

country, and so great an influence do I think his 
imagination exercises over his disease, that I am satis- 
fied, if he were stopped at Perote by a denial of his ap- 
plication that we should soon hear of his being a very 
sick man. 

To-day we have had no drills, a decided improvement 
on the doings of last Sunday, when no respect was shewn 
for the day. We ought to be very particular here, 
as we have been represented as opposed to the religion of 
the Country, and being determined to put the priest- 
hood down. 

Genl. Scott has ordered a spirit of conciliation to 
be practised, and among other things, we should seem 
to evince respect for the Sabbath. I hope, without 
very urgent necessity, we shall have no more drills 
on Sunday. Hoping that I may have an opportunity 
of writing a few words before we leave to-morrow, 
I shall now close. 

Monday, May loth, seven o'clock. 

Yours of 9th April was received yesterday. Thank 
God your anxiety was relieved by the next mail, as 
by letters from Savannah I find that Lt. Van Vliet, 
who was at the siege, arrived there on the 14th. But 
you must try to put your confidence more entirely on 
the merciful Father who has so constantly guarded 
us from every danger. 'T is He who rules the storm 
and governs its course to subserve His own wise 
purposes. 

I will not have time to write a long letter this morning, 
as we start at eight, and all are now busy loading 
the wagons. 

We will reach Puebla in about four days. No 
information of any hostile force on or near the road. 



170 An Artillery Officer 

No. II. PuEBLA, Mexico. 
May 15th, twenty minutes past one p.m. 

I have this moment washed the dust of the road 
from my face and hands, after having made our 
entree into the City early this morning. We were 
kept in the Plaza waiting for the selection of our 
quarters for about three hours. We are now quartered 
not far from the centre of Puebla, in an old barrack. 
So much better, however, than we have been accustomed 
to in Tepeyahualco, that we consider them reasonably 
good. Major Wade and myself have again taken a 
room together — this I agreed to rather than to incon- 
venience all the young officers by my selecting a 
separate room. 

This is a beautiful City, well built; some of the 
squares or blocks must have cost immense sums. 
The Cathedral is a very large building, very massive, 
but not of as beautiful or good a style as some of the 
churches. I may, however, before saying anything 
more about the City, take up the narrative of my 
march from the day of our leaving Tepeyahualco, 
the date of my last letter, loth inst. 

That night we encamped at Virreyes, ten miles; 
the nth we marched about thirteen miles, and en- 
camped at a horridly dirty hacienda, called Santa 
Anna. We had, however, passed a very pretty little 
church at Ojo de Agua — the country improving in 
fertility and losing somewhat of its volcanic traces. 
Very contradictory reports of the enem^y on the 12th. 
Passed about midday Nopolucan, the place where the 
road running from Vera Cruz to Mexico intersects 
the road we came. 

The Padre met Genl. Worth before reaching the 
City, and was very kind and full of friendly pro- 



PWl'IM'U-"t'KTlW!-» 




• : ^1^ «} 






In Mexico in 

fessions whilst we were there. He requested that 
the soldiers might be permitted to walk through the 
church. It has a great deal of gilding, filled with 
paintings; some of them, I would judge, making al- 
lowance for a miserably bad light in which they are 
seen, are very good. In one room, removed from the 
main body of the church by a side door, I saw a repre- 
sentation of our Saviour lying dead in a bed; the 
coverlid was said to be more than two hundred years 
old, well worn, worked with silk figures, flowers, etc. 
The whole affair did not produce a favorable effect 
on our minds. There was nothing pleasant either 
in the design or execution of any part of it. 

Encamped this night at the Hacienda de Piiial 
where we were joined by the 2nd Brigade, under 
Col. Clarke. Rumors of Santa Anna's having gone 
to Puebla. Twenty pickets posted around Camp, the 
soldiers informed that the enemy "are said to be 
near," and that they must sleep on their arms. To 
cap the climax, and to render a false alarm inevitable, 
an issue of grog was made after tattoo. About two 
in the morning, the whole Army turned out, because 
some of the men on guard fired at jackasses or some- 
thing else — drink the cause. 

The valley of Nopolucan is very rich, presenting a beau- 
tiful appearance, the fields divided by hedges of Maguey. 

13th. Marched through a romantic country, the first 
part of our route much broken, reached Amozoc, about 
fourteen miles, early in the afternoon. No one knows 
anything positive about Santa Anna. Men informed 
that we are to remain here one day, for the arrival 
of Genl. Quitman, and to enable them to clean and 
brush up. A quiet undisturbed night. 



172 An Artillery Officer 

Sunday, i6th. Soon after breakfast, whilst the men 
were busy cleaning belts, guns, etc., we were startled 
by hearing the long roll. All were soon under arms, 
when we heard that the enemy was coming down from 
Puebla. They were seen filing along the base of a 
hill about three quarters of a mile to the right of 
the town, their line extending as far as the configuration 
of the country permitted us to see, say a mile. Troops, 
Arty,, Cavalry, and Infantry were immediately dis- 
patched to attack them. Couriers were instantly sent 
to inform Genl. Quitman of their presence — he was 
known by Genl. W. to be within four miles of the City. 

Reports stated that the Mexican troops, as seen, 
amounted to about 5000 Cavalry. The Ord., Arty., and 
Col. Smith's light Battalion were stationed in the 
public Plaza, to guard it, and to remain there in reserve. 

Firing of cannon was soon heard, and in a moment 
the men stationed on the house tops proclaimed, by 
a shout, that the Mexicans were running in every 
direction. Having but parts of two Companies of 
Cavalry with us, we could not avail ourselves of that, 
the only species of troops useful in picking up the 
retreating enemy, so that they got off with the loss 
of such men as were killed by our Arty. The Infy. 
brought in six prisoners, one of them an ill-looking 
Padre. We had not a man either killed or wounded 
by the enemy, who passed by the town towards the 
direction we came from. Genl. Quitman saw them, 
but as soon as he showed preparations of arrangements 
for a fight, they bore off. 

Genl. Worth questioned the prisoners and learned 
that Genl. Santa Anna was with the Mexican troops. 
The loss of the enemy in killed was reported to be 
sixteen — ^it may have been much larger. 



In Mexico i73 

The troops were dismissed about twelve o'clock 
with orders for our Brigade to be ready for a march 
at three o'clock. We had scarcely finished a hasty 
meal at half past eleven when we were summoned to 
our Arms, and after a little delay, were told that we were 
not to march for one hour, and that the Command 
must be prepared for a night march. Left the City 
about the appointed time, and marched about a mile 
and a half; encamped under orders that we would 
start between eight and ten o'clock. 

Symptoms of rain shewing themselves very plainly, 
Maj. W. and I had a small tent pitched, A few min- 
utes afterwards, a heavy storm came on. During 
the rain, a Staff Officer rode up, stating that the move- 
ment was postponed till three a.m. As the Major 
and myself were about composing ourselves to sleep, 
we heard our even-tempered Colonel say "that he 
wished to God that he had his tent pitched." We 
then determined that we would ask him to come 
in with us. The invitation was immediately accepted, 
and he slept there till word came that it was nearly 
three o'clock and that we were to march at a quarter 
past. He didn't say "thankee" but "moseyed" off. 

I then went to Hd. Qrs. where I saw five genteel- 
looking Mexicans, who Col. Garland told me were a 
deputation from Puebla. Whilst there, a note was 
received from Genl. W. stating that in consequence of 
the darkness of the night the troops would not leave 
Amozoc till daylight. Word was now sent to our 
Command that we would march at daylight. 

We left in the morning of the 15th at half -past five. 
I have been thus minute, to let you into the secrets of 
one night of a campaign, and to shew you how inno- 
cently sleep may be killed. 



174 An Artillery Officer 

After divers halts along the road, we made our 
entrance into this City about noon yesterday. Nearly 
all of its eighty thousand inhabitants must have shown 
themselves either along the sides of the streets, or 
in and upon the houses. It reminded me of a New 
York crowd on some celebration day — turning the New 
Yorkers into some resemblance to Florida Indians. 

Having brought you into this City, I will not attempt 
any description of it at this time. I am not only 
desirous of seeing something of it first, but am appre- 
hensive, if I delay sending this letter to Hd. Qrs. 
that a courier may be despatched to Genl. Scott 
without it. I shall only therefore now add, that I 
am in a room by myself, and that I visited the grandest 
church this morning I ever saw — the same whose front 
and external appearance I mentioned as not pleasing 
me much. Genl. Santa Anna is said to be at St. 
Martin, about nine leagues (thirty miles) from here, 
on the road to Mexico. An election for President 
took place yesterday; we do not know the result. 

No. 12. PUEBLA DE LOS AnGELES. 

May 17, 1847. 

I fear that our correspondence cannot be continued 
with the punctuality which has attended it thus far. 
Should any of my letters fall into the hands of His 
Excellency Genl. Santa Anna or any of his officers, 
I hope that they will do me the favor of forwarding 
them to you. My letters can be of no possible service 
to them, as I, from my position, am debarred from all 
knowledge of the secret plans (if they have any) of 
our Commanders. No. 11 was sent to Hd. Qrs. 
yesterday, and is, I hope, well on its way. 

I have been strolling round the City but have seen 



In Mexico i75 

very little of its beauties. The style of building of the 
houses and of the churches is entirely different from 
anything I have seen. The people too, the lower class 
particularly, remind me, as I see them around the 
fountains, of the old pictures of the Egyptians. I 
cannot say much for the beauty of their Rebeccas, 
for as yet I have not seen a tolerably handsome face. 

Genl. Worth called, with the Commanders of 
Regiments and Corps, on the Bishop this morning. 
They were very affably received; the Bishop professed 
that he wished to see kindly courtesies felt and ex- 
changed between his flock and ourselves. He re- 
turned the call in about an hour. 

Lt. Austine says that he never saw such splendor 
as was in everything connected with the Bishop's 
Palace; the walls were filled with the choicest paint- 
ings. The Bishop, a very old Spaniard, apparently 
eighty or ninety, mentioned that he was in New York 
in 1825. If he and his clerical brethren desire, they 
can bring about a peace. God grant that wisdom and 
not passion may prevail in their meditations on this 
subject, and that they may ere long deserve and 
receive the blessings of all good Christians for accom- 
plishing this desirable result. 

The priests must know that if the war continues 
much longer, there will be great danger of their churches 
being reduced to the level of other denominations, 
which will be called into existence to satisfy the wants of 
tens of thousands of foreigners who will be attracted 
from every part of Europe by the reports of the richness 
of their lands, the deHghtful temperature of their 
climate, presenting to the palate every delicacy of the 
most favored climes. 

If the War be soon terminated, and the United 



176 An Artillery Officer 

States will not, I presume, though in actual possession 
of all the seaports and of the largest and best portions 
of their country, ask for a peace which will not save 
Mexican honor, she can soon resume the ordinary- 
functions of her Govt, and if she prefers, again close 
her doors to foreigners. As I shall probably spin out 
this letter to a more than usual length, I will not 
attempt any description of churches or City, till I 
have had more than a mere glance at them. ^^^-^ have 
not heard from Genl. Scott since our arrival. Report 
says that an express despatched by him to Genl. 
Worth has been cut off. I think it quite probable, 
as there is great danger, even in times of peace, in 
travelling along the route we came. 

I may have something to say about manufactures be- 
fore closing this letter, as Puebla is called by some 
the Lowell of Mexico. 

May i8th. 

In walking through the streets this morning, I saw 
many boys and women exposing for sale Genl. Scott's 
address to the Mexican people. Presuming that all these 
papers are as responsible as our papers, I will merely 
state that he tells them truths in such a simple style, 
in relation to the manner in which the people and Army 
have been misled, and shamefully abandoned by their 
Govt, and generals, that it will do much good. For- 
eigners here speak highly in its favor. The General 
tells them that he is going to Mexico, etc., etc. 

I find that each day in going out, I am losing the 
impression of novelty, which the first sight of the City 
made on me. I had therefore better communicate 
this impression before it wears off. It may present 
some views I might not otherwise give. 



mil iiiiiiii iiiiiiiiii'iiiiiiii nil'' '"^"*rTW|r^p^^||M"MIIw 



.^ ^, .^ 



IS,. 




In Mexico ^n 

The streets are broad with sidewalks of flat stones, 
the centre paved with round stones. As you enter 
either of the principal streets, the first thing that attracts 
you as novel is a row of tin pipes (several to each 
house) projecting some three or four feet from the upper 
part of the walls of the houses; these are to throw the 
water into the streets, which are thus policed by every 
rain. Each window is closed by an iron grating, 
projecting sufficiently into the street to enable the 
senoritas to stand, or sit, and command a view of the 
street. The upper story has a corresponding balcony 
nearly all filled with flowers. 

The walls, instead of presenting the sameness of ours 
with the red bricks uniformly placed, present all 
kinds of bright lined mathematical figures; the man 
of wealth shows a front formed of pieces of porcelain 
(generally with the figures), presenting a very hand- 
some appearance; his neighbor, probably not quite 
as rich, has here and there pieces of porcelain forming 
detached figures, whilst another has his house painted 
to look like the old-fashioned calicoes. Not far off 
you see one painted in rectangles. 

Some of the dwelling houses must have cost immense 
sums. The room in which I now write has its walls 
rudely but not unhandsomely painted to the height 
of five feet from the rough brick floor. If you can 
make anything of this attempt, ' it is more than I can. 
The ceiling is formed of two arches intersecting each 
other, an ellipse, a circular one, with a wreath of the 
annexed figure running up and over the two arches. 

Though ashamed of my previous attempts, I must go 
one step farther in letting you know something more of 
my room, which is about fourteen by eighteen feet. This 

' A sketch was enclosed in letter. 



178 An Artillery Officer 

table is also my mess table and my washstand. I have 
not much furniture to boast of; for washing I have 
an old tin basin, and an earthen bowl, the latter about 
eighteen inches across, an old brass candlestick (from 
home) with an enormous candle in it eighteen inches 
high, and an inch in diameter, a Mexican knapsack 
and a haversack, a canteen. Grandfather's tickler, which 
I have had covered with canvas to keep it from 
being broken; a pail, tumbler, and piece of Mexican 
matting complete my sum total of furniture, etc. 

We find the marketing abundant and reasonable; 
of fruits there are fine watermelons, muskmelons of 
various kinds, apples (small), pears (not very good), 
apricots, plums (indifferent), oranges, lemons, limes, 
bananas (excellent, eight for six and a quarter cents), 
Mamaias (not certain about that spelling), and others 
I have forgotten. Of vegetables, tomatoes, onions, 
cabbage, lettuce, radishes, parsnips, potatoes— Irish 
and sweet (both large), parsley, com, and peas, etc., 
beans of any number. Chickens, turkeys, and eggs are 
also abundant. As I think I have written enough of 
nonsense for one day, I will now close for to-night. 

19th. Everything is as quiet about the City as 
if we were at home. It will not do to allow our men 
to walk about the streets singly or unarmed. The 
General's orders are very positive and correct; no 
soldiers are permitted to go out of their garrison 
yards in less numbers than six and under the charge 
of a non-commissioned officer, all to have their arms. 
One fourth of our men are constantly under arms. 
The Genl. is reported to have been very courteous in 
permitting about eighty of Santa Anna's Cavalry to 
enter the City yesterday. 



In Mexico 179 

Nothing would delight me more, save ending the 
war and restoring me to my family, than to see this 
war civilized, to witness interchange of civilities be- 
tween the forces whenever they are not engaged in 
battle. At Cerro Gordo it was delightful to see our 
officers and men giving food and drink to the wounded, 
and doing all in their power to smooth the hard pillow 
of the dying. I noticed many of such acts which test 
both the valor and kind-heartedness of our Army. 

The Mexican officers seemed to have forgotten 
that the field was strewn with their dying and dead, 
and left all to us. In civilized warfare actions are 
sometimes suspended to enable the contending armies 
to take care of their wounded and to bury their dead. 
The Mexican soldier is not regarded or taken care of 
as ours are. 

I have been out shopping a little to-day, getting 
a few articles for the Compy. and for myself; the prices 
of hardware are enormously high — fifty cents apiece 
for the Britannia forks and spoons, three dollars for an 
old-fashioned coffee mill, and a dollar and a half for 
a kitchen iron dipper, smallest-sized box of matches 
three cents. 

I may as well say something about the dress of the 
common people ; the ladies have not become sufficiently 
well accustomed to the presence of the barbarians to 
shew themselves. The men wear jackets, pantaloons 
of buckskin, blue cloth of any kind or of velvet, fitting 
tight around the waist and open on the outer seam 
from the hip bone down, ornamented with buttons, 
or lace, embroidery, etc., the inside lined, and shewing 
under them the full leg of what is, I suppose, another 
pair of pants but not open at the seam ; this under-gar- 
ment is invariably white. Over the shoulders, and 



i8o An Artillery Officer 

generally thrown over the left shoulder as a cloak, 
they wear the universal blanket. 

Their hats have very broad brims and almost 
invariably ornaments at the side, a band or two of 
silver lace where we wear the hat band, and sometimes 
lace around the circumference of the brim. On horse- 
back, their legs are protected by a large piece of skin 
or leather, attached in front of the stirrup leather, 
which covers the leg perfectly. The foot is doubly 
protected, first by the huge wooden stirrup, secondly by 
a thick flap of leather which is fastened to the upper 
part of the stirrup. 

The common women wear the chemise (I suppose) 
and over it fastened around the waist some petti- 
coats, the outer one either entirely of some fancy 
colored material, or, at all events, the lower part, 
from the first swell of the hip downwards, will be found 
colored. Over their heads, breasts, and shoulders, 
you again see the blankets, or ribosa which is worn 
by all who can afford it. These are placed on the 
crown of the head (sometimes fastened to the hair 
by a pin) crossed so as to meet about the chin, and the 
ends sometimes thrown over the left shoulder, as the 
blanket or cloak is worn by the men. 

I saw a child carried by her mother, this morning, 
in a manner I never saw before. The woman had a 
basket full of some marketing, which was supported 
by her blanket, tied so as to form a kind of bag, the 
ends of the blanket tied together, and pressing on her 
forehead; between the basket and her blanket bag 
were seen divers kinds of vegetables, and under her 
left arm, its head (back downwards) dangling about 
the mother's hip, and one of its little feet seemingly 
holding to her dress behind was carried her little 



In Mexico i^i 

Indian child. It was certainly a novel way of carrying 
a child. 

You see them frequently carried here as the Indians 
do theirs in Florida, in blankets on the back. In fact 
the common people here resemble our Indians so strongly 
in their habits, it would be easy for them to assimilate 
at once. Education would make them good citizens. 
Ignorance keeps them serfs. Enough for to-day, 
bonsoir. 

May 20th. I spent about an hour in the Cathedral, 
hoping when I left home that I might, on my return, 
be able to give you some description of the building 
and of its decorations. But without drawings it were 
perhaps better to say nothing, or, at all events, to speak 
in very general terms. In this interior chapel I saw 
no one, the other day during Mass, except the priests 
and children who were engaged in chanting. 

The outer sides of this chapel are filled with paint- 
ings, some apparently very valuable; and it also has 
two little altars. The effect is grand beyond descrip- 
tion, though you see much gold, silver, and gilding, 
still it is all in such grand style that you do not enter- 
tain the least feeling, such as I mentioned I entertained 
in seeing the Church ornaments at Nopolucan. 

Every altar (except two) has around it pictures 
of various sizes, some not very good, but many very 
well executed. O how I wish that you could walk 
with me and enjoy the glorious beauty of this Cathedral. 
I feel that it would help to make me a better man. 
But behold, I am on my eighth page; I fear that if 
I do not reduce my daily scale of writing, the express, 
when he goes, will not carry my bulky epistle. I must 
now close for to-day. 



i82 An Artillery Officer 

May 2 1 St. I have made a few corrections and addi- 
tions to the sketch of the Cathedral, which I visited 
to-day for the purpose of verifying my work of yester- 
day. I shall add very little more, as I cannot describe 
it in terms to make you see, or delight in, its grandeur. 

The arches forming the ceiling spring from sixty-four 
enormous stone pillars, arranged in groups of four, 
some of which are designated by (*) in the drawings;^ 
along the side walls are seen corresponding sections, 
presenting one whole pillar and the two halves, from 
which spring the arches connecting with the walls. 
In another part of this same pile of buildings, we entered 
to-day two chapels, each containing three altars, one 
shewing the neatest and most beautiful rich altar-piece 
I have seen. It looks like rich chased gold. Enough! 

No news from Genl. Scott ; the rumor I heard yester- 
day that he was at Tepeyahualco, has not been con- 
firmed to-day. Yesterday, a very heavy seizure of 
tobacco was made ; it is worth several thousand dollars. 
Here, the Govt, monopolizes the tobacco trade. The 
rainy season seems to have commenced here, as we 
have rain every afternoon or night. I do hope that 
Genl. Twiggs's Division is provided with tents; if the 
men are not inside some kind of shelter at night, 
they must suffer very much. 

Saturday, May 22nd. No mail, no rumor that a 
mail is on its way to us — nothing from Genl. Scott 
— in fact, we are without news from any part of the 
world. Even from Mexico, the Capital of this Republic, 
we hear nothing. So long as I could hear from you with 
the least degree of regularity, my mind was quieted 
from mail to mail, in hopes that the next mail would 

' Sketches were enclosed in the letter. 



In Mexico 183 

give me good news of you, but now, when I look 
forward to a long summer in which I may hear from 
you very seldom if at all, it requires more philosophy 
than is now at my command to bear it. 

I will yet hope that Genl. Scott will, when he arrives, 
devise some secure means for ensuring the regular and 
safe carriage of our letters. Thus far I have been much 
disappointed in not having received at least one mail 
since our arrival. 

The Diligence came in to-day from Vera Cruz; 
it was robbed by some of the rancheros, or in other 
words, by some of the old established robbers, who 
now design legalizing their rascality by claiming 
to belong to the Mexican Guerrillas. The report 
that Genl. Scott was at Tepeyahualco two days ago, 
is contradicted by the passengers of the Diligence, 
who say that he was at Jalapa when they passed through. 
No one knows who tells the lie, rumor No. i or No. 2. 

Cannon and musketry firing were said by Lt. Judd 
to have been distinctly heard this morning. To- 
morrow I presume that, if such is the fact, I shall 
let you know its cause. Out Dictionary hunting to- 
day; found a pocket edition of Nugent, old and much 
worn, for which the sum of five dollars was modestly 
asked. I need not say that the book was left on the 
table whence it was taken to be handed to me. 

I finished to-day reading the Prairie Bird. I do 
not know whether you read it. Whether it was 
because it was the only book in our language which 
I could get, or that the work has intrinsic merit, I 
know not, but I was very much interested in it. Those 
who know anything of the localities described, might 
criticise the pigeon-like flight of his characters from 
one part of the country to another, but his characters 



i84 An Artillery Officer 

of War Eagle, Winnegund, Ethelston, and Prairie 
Bird are certainly well drawn. He has, too, interwoven 
in a tale of fiction much true knowledge of Indian 
character, and many anecdotes illustrative of their 
habits, etc. 

Dr. Holden and I think of taking lessons in Spanish 
if we can find a good and reasonable instructor. I 
find that I can ask for many things, but I could not 
attempt to ask or answer questions in conversation. 
Our little friend, Capt. Brooks, is very useful in in- 
terpreting, as he reads and speaks the Spanish language 
very well. 

I must now lay this sheet by till to-morrow when 
I may have to thank you for another letter. God grant 
that it may be so. To His care and protection do my 
prayers ever consign you. Good-day. 

Sunday, May 23rd. I fear that in my anxiety to 
give you multum in parvo, I may render my letter so 
nearly illegible as to destroy my object. Really, 
sometimes when I think of our position, so far into 
the interior of the enemy's country, and with so small 
a force, though I have not the least apprehension 
about our being able to keep our ground, still I cannot 
see how our communications can be kept up with our 
seaports. Would that Genl. Scott were here, he 
would soon solve all my difficulties. 

We attended, by invitation. High Mass this morning 
in the Cathedral. The ceremonies were more showy 
then I ever saw in the United States, as the number 
of priests and attendants was larger than our Catholic 
communities could get together, and their dresses were 
also much more costly than we see in the United 
States. The three officiating priests wore the richest 



In Mexico 185 

garment (I know not its name) over their backs and 
shoulders I ever saw; it looked like gold cloth. The 
music was very fine, not so sweetly pleasant to the 
ear as the vespers, as we heard them sung in St. Peter's 
Church in New York. You remember the time. 

To-day during a part of the Mass, the voices were 
accompanied by orchestral music, some violins, a 
bass viol, and two or three wind instruments. This 
gave us delightful music. Not a female voice was 
in the choir — a great defect, as the voices of the boys 
have not the sweetness of those of females. Next 
Sunday, being Trinity, I presume that we shall be 
again invited. Nothing new, no word from General 
Scott. Good-night, God bless you. 

Monday, 24th. Some of the quick-eared report 
musketry and firing having been heard again this 
morning, but no one believes it. Genl. Worth re- 
ceived a dispatch from Genl. Scott yesterday, in which 
he stated that he would leave Jalapa on the 23rd 
(yesterday). He may be expected here in about 
six days. 

We have this morning a rumor that Genl. Bustamante 
is raising an army of 13,000 men in the City of Mexico, 
and that another Genl. is to join him with 9,000 men 
from the tierras calientes, the country beyond the 
mountains. Others say that old Genl. Bravo is 
marching down with an Army of 50,000 men. We do 
not believe any of these reports and feel confident of 
beating any Army Mexico can bring against us. 

One thing I observe to-day which gives me great 
pleasure, viz., the ladies are making their appearance 
in the streets. This shows that confidence is being 
established. For the first four or five days after our 



186 An Artillery Officer 

arrival, not a lady was seen in the streets, private 
carriages were not seen, but few females shewed them- 
selves at the windows. To-day we see very genteel 
equipages and ladies and gentlemen taking drives. 
I hope that in a short time the Pueblans will find that 
we are not as barbarous as we have been represented, 
and learn to regard us as good friends. 

No one can tell us where Genl. Santa Anna is. I 
have been reading Thompson 's Recollections of Mexico y 
in which he gives many instances of Santa Anna's 
generosity and other good qualities. I expect from 
the tenor of some severe articles recently published 
against him, that he will soon be again compelled to 
leave his country, for whose Independence he has 
fought in many an action. 

I find that I am forgetting that I ought to restrict 
myself in my writing as I am running off into dis- 
sertations which had better be contracted or 
omitted. When I take up my pen to write to you, 
I instinctively write every thought as it enters my 
mind. This you see by my erratic style. But of this 
you are ever well assured, that you always fill the 
heart and soul of your own devoted husband. 

Tuesday, 25th. No letters. No Genl. Scott. 111- 
tongued rumor even goes so far as to say that when 
the Genl. arrives, no mail will be brought, as no mail 
has been received at Vera Cruz for one month. I will 
not believe the story — ^it cannot be true. 

I had written thus far, when Maj. Wade, Dr. 
Holden, Lts. Judd and Austine came in ; they have just 
left, giving me a late bed hour. I have nothing new 
to communicate. The reports about Bustamante's 
raising an Army in Mexico is contradicted to-day; it 



In Mexico 187 

is now reported that Santa Anna was enthusiastically 
received in Mexico, that he is to be the next President, 
that he is organizing an Army and preparing the City 
[or defence. I do not believe this tale — it is too im- 
probable. The Genl. who lost the battle of Cerro 
[^ordo cannot be received with enthusiasm in the 
[Capital. 

I must not close my letter without telling you of 
Dur visit to one of the Churches this morning where 
the railing and enclosure of the main Altar was orna- 
mented with flowers and evergreens in pots ; the effect 
tvas very pretty. The idea struck me as an original 
and very charming one. The padre of that Church 
must be a good man. That God may keep my wife 
inder His especial care is my prayer . 

May 26th. I have just returned from a walk with 
the Doctor, and was informed that an Express was to 
[eave in the morning. As Col. Belton has sent his 
[etters off (without asking for our letters), I know 
fiot but I may be foiled in my attempt at getting 
this into the mail. But I will leave no proper means 
[or doing so untried. 

Among the other curious sights here, I see the tails 
D mules put up in leather bags or pockets. The 
harness is made with these pockets to keep their 
tails from interfering with the driver's lines, of which 
there are none, as the driver rides on one of each pair 
Di mules. 

No. 13. PUEBLA. 

May 28, 1847. 
No. 12 was, I find, taken yesterday morning by a 
Mexican gentleman who has started for Vera Cruz. 



i88 An Artillery Officer 

He has my warmest thanks for his offer to take letters, 
and if, by his agency, you succeed in getting mine, 
I shall be under everlasting obligations to at least one 
of these will he enemies. I was prevented from writing 
last evening, by a visit, from an early till a late hour, 
of nearly all the officers of our little garrison. 

Lt. Johnson was, I thought, last week about relapsing 
into the state in which he was represented to have 
been at St. Augustine — so nervous that he could at- 
tend to no duty. But something fortunately occurred, 
which roused him from his lethargy, in which I hope 
he will not again indulge. 

In speaking of the City, no mention has, I believe, 
been made of the Alameda. This is a large lot ar- 
ranged for the afternoon walks and drives of the 
citizens of Puebla. A double row of trees, mostly 
willows, shades the principal drive around its four 
sides; from this, several walks lead to fountains in the 
interior; some of these have " jets-d'eau, " in others the 
water merely bubbles, or wells up. 

All these walks and fountains are shaded by trees, 
among which I saw a tree resembling very closely 
my horror, the Lombardy poplar, but I was told it 
was a species of willow. Hedges of roses, sweet peas, 
marguerites (with here and there a dahlia) and pinks, 
surround and intersect this beautiful spot. Of roses 
I never before saw such a profusion. 

All the flowers are the same we have in our gardens ; 
not an uncommon one did I see. Looking at the 
flowers and trees, we might, had it not been for the 
operations of jond memory, have imagined ourselves 
in our own beloved land. But the delusion would 
have soon been dispelled by the constant presence 
at the fountains of some of the water-carriers. The 



In Mexico 189 

earthen jars here used are, I suspect, the exact 
pattern of those used by the Israelites. Though 
not famous for sketching, let's try.' Each carrier 
has two of these jars, holding, I think, ten gallons; 
one is carried in front, the strap crossing the man's 
neck, and the other behind, the strap over the upper 
part of the forehead. 

Major Wade saw one of these carriers, who had just 
filled his jars and started from the fountain in front 
of our quarters, and was so unfortunate as to have 
both of them fall, and of course break to pieces. 
The poor fellow stood muttering something and crossed 
himself repeatedly, gazing at his loss. This is mentioned 
as an instance of their adherence to the forms of their 
religion. 

I have frequently been in sight of the public Plaza, 
where the market is held, at the hour of the officiating 
priest's elevating the Host in the Cathedral. It is 
announced by the striking of a particular bell; at 
this sound, every Mexican throws himself on his knees 
and there remains till another signal gives notice 
that the ceremony is over, when they immediately 
resume their business. I have seen the market-place 
filled with buyers and sellers, all on their knees, and 
the Mexicans in the streets near by leading to the 
square, also kneeling. 

In other parts of the City, at the sound of this bell 
all uncover. This last they invariably do whenever 
they pass the door of a church (and they are very 
numerous) or a priest. The respect they pay to their 
religion is wonderful, and to me a very pleasing sight. 

Genl. Scott has arrived; he came in this morning, 
with an Escort of Cavalry and Mounted Rifles. I 

' A sketch was enclosed in letter. 



190 An Artillery Officer 

have not seen him, but shall call on him to-morrow. 
Lt. Judd states that he heard we were to advance, 
leaving a force here of two thousand men. I have 
most unlimited confidence in the judgment and dis- 
cretion of the Genl. and will blindly pin my faith to 
any of his decisions. You know that in my journaliz- 
ing, I give you sometimes daily rumors which are 
subsequently corrected by others which I give; this 
may be the case with the above rumor. 

Thus far had I written when my room was filled 
with officers who have just left me. It is now good 
bed time, and, as I have already given you a long letter 
for one day's writing, I will now bid you good-night. 

Saturday night, 29th. I called to see Genl. Scott 
this morning and was deHghted to learn that a mail 
was coming up with Genl. Twiggs ; he has arrived with 
his Division, but we have not been informed when 
or where the mail will be opened. The Genl. does not 
look very well; he is, I presume, merely suffering 
from the fatigue of a rapid march. 

Most of my Army friends have arrived with him. 
My friend, Capt. Irwin, is, I am delighted to see, looking 
better than when we parted at Vera Cruz. Capt. 
Wayne mentioned that he had a letter from Mrs. 
W. dated the 24th April. I hope that my good news 
from you will be of as late a date. 

I am sorry to hear that there is every probability 
that my first letter from this place has been taken, as 
General Scott has never received Genl. Worth's report 
of our entering this place, forwarded by the same 
express. I am now writing in the fond, and, I fear, 
foolish hope, that I may ere long have a safe opportun- 
ity for sending this letter. During this long, long 



In Mexico 191 

summer I fear that we shall scarcely hear from each 
other. What would I not give, if the two Nations 
would like sensible people agree at once upon some 
honorable terms of peace. 

We have, by the General's Staff, been favored with 
papers from the United States, announcing the reception 
of the news of the battle of Cerro Gordo. I have not 
read any of the accounts, but have no doubt they, 
as is generally the case, deviate widely from the truth. 
I hope that Capt. R, Lee, U. S. Engineers, will write 
a Military Memoir on that battle, accompanying it 
with correct topographical maps, indicating the posi- 
tion of the batteries, and showing the varied positions 
of the troops during the battle. The accurate 
description of that battle would place the science 
of our Army distinctly and most creditably before 
European Military readers. 

Capt. Swift's death, though not unexpected, has 
filled the hearts of his friends, and all who knew him 
were such, with feelings of grief. He was an excellent 
man, and a most valuable officer. You saw him at 
West Point. Capt. Mason, of the Rifles, who lost 
a leg at Cerro Gordo, has, I am sorry to say, died from 
his wound. He was a favorite also with his acquaint- 
ances. Our friend Lt. Col. Bragg rises rapidly in the 
Military world. Genl. Taylor's encomium on him, in 
his report of his last battle, is good for another brevet ; 
this will place our young Capt. among the Brevet 
Lt. Colonels. Enough for to-night. 

Sunday night, 30th May. I had just closed my 
eyes last night, when I was roused by a tap at the door, 
and was told that there was a letter for me. My 
heart told me that it was from you. It was yours of 



192 An Artillery Officer 

the 20th. Its reception has relieved my mind of a 
heavy weight, as it tells me that your heart is at rest 
in relation to Vera Cruz. About Cerro Gordo you 
cannot have been kept long in suspense. 

But, my wife, you are stark mad and crazy about my 
name's not being mentioned, or my not having been 
brevetted. A Capt. of the line of the Army has the 
least possible chance of being mentioned among the 
distinguished, however distinguished his conduct may 
be. 

The reason why, is a very simple one. As he is 
part of a Command, whether Regt. or Battalion, 
whatever is done by the Regt. or Battalion, is placed 
to the credit of its commander. It is only by a cap- 
tain's being detached with his Compy. on some special 
service that he has a chance to distinguish himself. 
Hence the advantage of an officer's commanding a 
Battery, etc. Dispel this idea from your mind, and 
regard me as returning plain Capt. Anderson, however 
well and zealously I may perform my duties. 

If I should be brevetted, it will be luck. Genl. 
Scott, though my best friend, cannot designate me, 
unless I am reported to him — the ill-will or ill-temper 
of the Regtl. Commander might not, even under a 
highly favorable case, give him an opportunity of 
so doing. Let this not worry you. I hope that as 
long as I remain in service, I shall continue so to act 
as to command the favorable opinion of all those 
with whom I serve; as to gaining brevets, that is a 
lottery in which there are many blanks to the prize; 
though all the candidates pay the same price — most 
gallant deeds — but few are lucky enough to draw the 
prize. 

I dined with Genl. S. to-day, and am sorry to say 



In Mexico i93 

that he was compelled to take quinine. I had hoped 
that he would recover without more medicine, though 
I knew by my own case how long a time it required 
for me to recover from my Perote chill. The Genl. 
has been as kind and affectionate as ever to me, and 
begs me to call whenever I can. But knowing how 
little time he has to spare to friendly intercourse, 
I cannot intrude often on him. He made many kind 
inquiries about the family. I hope Father has written 
to him. 

I was in the Cathedral at Mass this morning. Trinity 
Sunday. The pillars through the body of the church 
as well as those against the walls, were entirely covered 
with rich damask velvet. The music was much more 
delightful than it was last Sunday. It was sublime. 
Genl. S. was there with his Staff. I regret that I did 
not understand the sermon, as I was pleased with 
the manner and voice of the preacher. Enough for 
to-night. 

May 31st. Capt. De Hart took supper with us and 
remained until after Tattoo, so that I shall write you 
only a few lines to-night. Your letter advises that 
henceforth I ought to direct my letters to Clarkesville ; 
I fear that my having changed too soon my directions 
to that place may have caused you much uneasiness. 
My previous letters have given my reasons for my 
having done so. 

News of great (it may be) importance came last 
night from Mexico, that Santa Anna, to heal the pohtical 
and personal dissensions in the parties of Mexico, has 
determined to sacrifice himself, and has declared that 
he will not accept the Presidency. Who will be the 
President seems to be very uncertain. Generals Bravo 



194 An Artillery Officer 

and Valencia have command of the Mexican Armies, 
the one at the Capital, the other in San Luis. 

Of Genl. Taylor's movements we know nothing. 
Our placid Lt. Col. has been named by Genl. Worth 
as his successor in the Milty. and Civil Governorship 
of this City. A worse selection could not have been 
made. 

This looks a little like the 3rd's being intended as 
part of the garrison of this Post. I shall exert all my 
ingenuity to prevent my being left. I am exceedingly 
desirous on many accounts to go as far into the Country 
as any one. Nous verrons. 

Friend Capt. Knowlton sent me a package of New 
York papers; if I can find a safe opportunity I must 
return him my thanks. My anxiety that you should 
hear from me will cause me to embrace every oppor- 
tunity of sending a letter whether it be considered 
safe or not; if any one reaches you it is a point gained. 

June 1st. Nothing new to-day. In fact, as I am 
Officer of the Day, I have not been outside of our 
quarters. I have read Genl. Santa Anna's resignation 
of the Presidency ; the latter part is as pretty a piece of 
egotism as I have met with for a long time. 

Yesterday the Municipal authorities of this City 
retired from their offices. Genl. Worth has, in the 
exercise of his authority as Governor, directed an elec- 
tion to be held to fill their places and has ordered those 
officials to return to their duties till their places are 
filled. I have not been to see Genl. Scott since Sunday, 
but must call to-morrow to enquire how he is. 

My wife, you have either mistaken the purport 
of one of the sentences in a letter from Vera Cruz, or 
it states what I did not mean. I did not receive the 



In Mexico i95 

white flag whilst in the trenches; the parley (as we 
believed it to be) was sounded and the firing suspended 
for the bearer of the flag to approach, but as we had 
no bugle to answer their call, we missed the opportunity 
of receiving the flag, which without the enemy's 
firing another shot, went to Genl. Scott early the next 
morning, that is, the same morning we were relieved 
in the trenches. 

Col. Bankhead's report, giving only the names of 
the oflicers who were in the trenches the first day, has, 
I hear, been published; his excuse for not mentioning 
all was, that he had forgotten the names of the others — 
a pretty excuse to be sure, as it could have been so 
easily rectified. He promised to make a fuller report 
on reaching Washington when he would name all the 
commanders of the batteries. Enough of Vera Cruz, 
and enough, I must say, for to-night. 

Tuesday, June 2nd. As Major Wade was absent 
from the garrison all the morning I could not go out 
till late this afternoon. My first visit was to Maj. 
Kirby, and whilst he was engaged in business, I went 
into another room to see Capt. Myers. The Capt. 
has, by a fall, I fear, injured himself so that he will walk 
lame for the rest of his life; the knee-pan seems to be 
detached from its proper position. 

The Major and I sallied out sight-seeing and we 
saw what were great curiosities to me, viz., figures of 
Mexican Indians made of prepared linen; the counte- 
nances were very expressive. One was a group of three 
figures — a drunken man, his neck too limber to support 
his head; next is his mother perfectly enraged at him, 
and intent upon administering chastisement on her 
foolishly good-humored son, which she is prevented 



196 An Artillery Officer 

from doing by her daughter-in-law who holds her 
arm. 

A second group is an Alcalde, administering a lecture 
to a man whose wife is in tears on the other side of 
the Alcalde, who is seated between the other figures 
who are standing. Should we ever have peace I must 
bring you some of the curiosities of these singular 
people — many of them I shall have to abandon an 
attempt to carry, from the difficulty of packing them 
safely for so long a journey. 

Col. Pierce Butler informed me this afternoon that 
one of his Captains was about returning home, and 
that if I would send any letters to his quarters he would 
with pleasure give them in charge of his Captain. 
I thanked him from the bottom of my heart and will 
hand this letter to him. 

Thus far no means have been devised to secure 
the safe transmission of our letters, and we catch 
eagerly at any opportunity which seems to offer a 
chance delivery of them. We may get another mail 
by some nine hundred recruits who are expected from 
the United States via Vera Cruz, but with that excep- 
tion, we see no prospect of any other, till the President 
sends us an addition to our small but invincible band. 

Had we 30,000 men and Genl. Taylor 20,000, the War 
might soon be closed. Our Govt, should remember 
and act vigorously upon the advice given by Father' 
to it before the breaking out of the Florida War. I 
must leave a little clear space for to-morrow. 

Genl. Scott's Office, June 3rd. Being on guard at 
the General's Hd. Qrs., I must close my letter to-night 
for the mail which leaves to-morrow, without being 

'Genl. Clinch. 



In Mexico i97 

able to add as much to it as I had designed. As Capt. 
Huger and some others are waiting to avail them- 
selves of the candle-light which I am using, courtesy 
and fellow-feeling prompt me to close at as short a time 
as possible. 

I have no other news to give. Col. B. has left 
our quarters, much to our satisfaction, and taken 
up his abode in a comer of the Palace. Col. Butler 
has again urged me to confide my letter to his "Cap- 
tain," who hopes to raise a party at Jalapa sufficiently 
large to march with safety to Vera Cruz. We shall 
have in a few days an addition of 2000 men to our 
present command in addition to those you see mentioned 
as coming from the United States. 

No. 14. PUEBLA. 

June 4th. Friday night. 

Although very tired and sleepy from my necessary 
wakefulness last night, I cannot retire without having 
a little chat with you. All were disappointed in not 
witnessing yesterday the great ceremonies usually per- 
formed in Catholic communities on that, Corpus Christi, 
day. Fearful that they might be insulted by our 
soldiery, they hmited themselves in the observance 
of their ceremonies to the walls of their churches. 

Many years have passed since I saw these ceremonies, 
and I regret very much, from my recollection of what 
I then witnessed in Bogota, South America that the 
grand procession was not made in all its splendor through 
the streets here. The streets through which the pro- 
cession passed were hung with the richest cloths and 
satins. Everybody, priests and laity, was dressed as 
splendidly as their own, or the means of their friends 
would enable them. The consecrated wafer, the Host, 



198 An Artillery Officer 

was carried from church to church and then returned 
to the Cathedral. 

Yesterday, I was told that the ceremonies in the 
Cathedral where the Host was taken round, were not 
remarkably imposing. I heard this morning, that 
had the assurances made to the Clergy night before 
last, that they would neither be insulted nor molested 
in any way by our men, been given the night before, 
the procession would have taken place, but after the 
notices there was not time for the necessary prepara- 
tions. 

The rumor of to-day is that the Mexican Congress 
have declined accepting Santa Anna's resignation. 
They are determined to thrust the Presidency upon him. 
One thing looks unpromising for the Mexican Nation 
in this, that it seems they look to him and him alone, 
it may be said, for their salvation from our power. 
From the reputation Santa Anna purchased by his 
bravery, zeal, and skill in their internal broils, the Mexi- 
cans ought to regard him as one of their greatest men. 

In his controversies with the Texans and his battles 
with us, the splendor of his star has been somewhat 
tarnished. He may now make desperate efforts to 
regain his lost brilliancy. Nous verrons. He has a 
very prudent, brave, and skilful adversary to cope 
with. Enough for to-night. 

Saturday night, June 5th, Rumor says that Santa 
Anna insists upon his resignation being accepted, and 
that he has asked for his passports to enable him to leave 
the country. As I have a long report to make to-night 
to present to Genl. Worth in the morning, in relation 
to the case of a Mexican sabred by a soldier, I must be 
very brief. I am on duty to-day, as Division Officer 



In Mexico 199 

of the Day, having been thus honored in consequence 
of my being placed on duty, as Acting Major of the 
Regt. ! ! ! A great honor, Acting Major to three 
companies. To-morrow I will make amends for this 
brevity. 

Sunday night, June 6th. As soon as I heard of the 
arrival of the mail this afternoon, I hastened to the 
Quartermaster's office and was there presented with 
a letter from the Pennsylvanian who was with me at 
Vera Cruz. You may judge of my disappointment ! 

My friend. Dr. Cuyler, has just sent me a most 
welcome contribution — your letter of the 26th April. 
To-night I can do no more than thank you for it. 

Monday night, June 7th. Let me now give answers 
to certain queries in your last letter. Our arrange- 
ment in Genl. Worth's Divison is permanent, and 
would only be altered by a re-organization of the 
Command, or by our being left in garrison. You need 
not send your letters under cover to Col. Hunt — if 
directed to me as "belonging to the Army" under 
Genl. Scott in Mexico they will come safely. Our 
friend Lt. Brown is here with Capt. Wells' Co., the 
one formerly commanded by Lt. Steptoe. He left me 
a few minutes since; his manner is always kind and 
affectionate. He always enquires about you. 

Two officers are now attached temporarily to "G" 
Co., Lt. Andrews and Lt. Shields; the former performs 
the duties of Asst. Q. M. and Asst. Commissary of Sub- 
sistence, the latter, who attends to Compy. duty, 
has applied to be permanently attached to the Compy. 
Our cousin, Lt. A., speaks in very high terms of Lt. S. 
and says that he is a gentleman. Lt. A.'s wife is with 



200 An Artillery Officer 

her father's family on Governor's Island ; they have no 
child, having been unfortunate. 

I am rejoiced that your dear grandmother is well 
again after her dangerous attack. Of our friend Lt. 
-y- Sherman we have not heard, except through the news- 
paper which announces his arrival in CaHfornia. 

Tuesday 8th. I hear that when the Regts., etc., now 
^^/e under orders for our Army reach us, oiu: force will 
amount to twenty thousand men. Had it been half 
that on our arrival here, we might have been long 
since in the City of Mexico, and that without having 
to shed another drop of blood. Report says that Genl. 
Bravo is now raising an army of 35,000 men, and 
that the Mexicans are fortifying some points on the 
road. We have had so many Mexican stories about 
their positions, strength, etc., that I pay no attention 
to any that I hear. 

Yesterday the Brigade was inspected by the In- 
spector General, Col. Hitchcock, and made a very 
respectable display for troops in the field. Genl. 
Worth speaks of commencing Division drills next 
week. With his energy and thorough knowledge, 
we will soon bear the palm from all competitors. 
Genl. Twiggs, not understanding evolutions of the 
Line himself, cannot instruct others. I may do him 
an injustice; my remark is based upon what I have 
heard. I never saw him drilling. 

I suppose it certain that we will not leave this place 
till our reinforcements arrive. We are now strong 
enough to whip any army the Mexicans can raise. 
You remember Lt. Johnson. He had not, before the 
arrival of the last mail, received a line from his wife 
since he left her, and that mail brought him information 



In Mexico 201 

of the loss of his little boy. As he is a Christian, he 
bears it well. Feeling confident that his child is now 
a happy angel in the presence of God, he grieves not 
for it. He says that preceding letters, giving an ac- 
count of the illness, etc., must have been miscarried, as 
his wife writes of it as an event some time past. He 
says that her letter is what it ought to be — that she 
is very pious, and sets him a good example. "We all 
sympathize very sincerely with him. 

A letter from Tampico informs us that Mrs. Gates 
has presented the Col. with a little Mexican daughter. 
It has raised him a couple of inches higher. Capt. 
Burke is under orders for our Army; he ought to be 
at Vera Cruz now, as his orders are dated April 27th. 
Think of the Capt. as Commander of the 3rd ! 

Among the oddities of the Mexicans, I have not 
mentioned that small pieces of soap are current coin, 
instead of the smallest copper coin, clico, worth half a 
cent. In market I frequently see the soap given as 
change. 

Wednesday, 9th. A little fatigued from a day's hard 
work. I was congratulating myself about 9 o'clock 
this morning that I would have a quiet day in which 
I could write a few letters to Larz and to two or three 
others to whom letters are due, when my designs 
were suddenly crushed by an order to march the Regt. 
to the exercise ground and there to drill at battalion 
drill till Col. Garland's arrival. Major Wade was 
absent on Court-Martial, so that I had to play Colonel. 

I had been drilling but a few minutes when Genl. 
Worth and the Inspector Genl. Hitchcock showed 
themselves among the spectators. The remaining 
Regiments of the Brigade soon came on the ground, 



202 An Artillery Officer 

and we took our positions in Line. Col. Garland now 
took command and kept us on the field until half past 
one o'clock — a pretty good day's work. 

On Saturday the Division will be reviewed, man- 
oeuvred by Genl. Worth. We are already cautioned 
to take our canteens filled with water and lunch in the 
haversacks; we shall have no child's play then. Of 
news we have not heard a word to-day. To-morrow 
we may, probably, hear from Genl. Child's Command 
mentioned in my last letter. 

Mr. N. P. Trist, the special and most Extraordinary 
Minister of President Polk, is in the city. I have not 
heard him mentioned. Everybody thinks he is here 
on a fool's errand, and that he had better go home as 
soon as possible. 

By the way, I was very much astonished at meeting 
our Tampa Bay Sutler in the streets here a day or 
two since. He left his wife at Tampa, and has come 
out to see if he can collect some money due him by 
some of the 8th Infy. Companies. I asked him 
if he had sold the articles left by me with him. He 
said that he sold nearly everything at excellent prices, 
and that he had directed Mr. Ferris to sell the remainder 
at auction on some court day, and to remit you the 
amount. 

Poor Mr. Clark has, I fear, come on a wild goose 
chase, as no one knows when the men will be paid off. 
The Captains of Companies are generally anxious that 
the men should not be paid whilst in a large city, as 
drunkenness and broils will take place, and we shall 
have Mexican soldiers murdered. 

What do you think of an American Theatrical 
Company opening in the City of Puebla!! I saw to- 
day a notice that the Theatre would be opened in a 



In Mexico 203 

day or two by Messrs. Wells and Hart. Enough for 
to-night. 

June loth. I have been here so long that I feel 
that I have seen enough of the people to describe some 
of their peculiarities. They exhibit a greater fondness 
for children than any people I ever saw. I do not 
think you can point out any article used by grown 
persons of which I can not shew you its miniature 
among the playthings. Of dolls — wax, wood, and 
rag — there are thousands, from the very smallest 
to our common sizes. The Indians bring in the 
rudest and most ludicrous representations of animals 
you can conceive of. Of saint and of soldier you may 
purchase a collection not very flattering to the vanity 
of either. 

In preserves (this word does not embrace the in- 
finite variety of articles prepared with sugar we find 
here), the Spanish people, I presume, excel all other 
people. The common sponge-cake sold in the streets 
is generally excellent; then you find figs, dates, and 
various kinds of rinds, exceedingly well preserved; 
again you find other sweetmeats, of which milk is a 
component part. Their candied fruit is very good. 
I hope that on our return I may find transportation 
for a box or two of these articles for you. 

The toys and dukes are exhibited for sale under the 
arcades of the large houses separated by streets from 
the Plaza where the market is held. The market is 
to strangers a great curiosity, being held in a large 
open square. On examining closely you will find that 
in the seeming disorder and confusion there is much 
method. 

Along the outer side of the square, and indeed oui- 



204 An Artillery Officer 

side of the square, and encroaching on the sidewalks, 
you find Mexican crockery, plates, dishes, cups, bowls, 
water jars, baskets (willow) of sizes from large, three 
and a half feet in diameter, flat ones, to those three 
inches in diameter, and matting from coarse to quite 
pretty. 

The first row inside is com, spread out in large 
piles on matting; next to this you find onions, large 
and white as snow, tomatoes, generally of the wild 
kind, green and about an inch in diameter, and some 
coarse kind of greens, parsley, etc. 

Next are some women who have their charcoal 
furnaces at work cooking and selling various Mexican 
stews, etc.; here you may buy from this girl, who 
removes a dirty cloth from the top of the basket near 
her, tortillas made of com soaked in lime mashed 
by a roller on a large flat stone prepared for that pur- 
pose, and then baked. She is too dirty, or at all 
events the cloth which keeps her tortillas hot is too 
dirty — let us pass on. 

On the next row among the onions, cabbages, 
tomatoes, large and small (I have not seen any of the 
beautiful golden tomatoes here), radishes (very large, 
and good), turnips, squashes, peas, carrots, you may 
perchance see some of your old acquaintances, but so 
disguised that you will scarce recognize them; those 
shining sleek objects are sweet potatoes, boiled and 
sweetened by some sugaring process, and those crooked^ 
mammoth pods, six and eight inches long, are said 
to be ochre. I have not seen an uncooked one in market. 

In the next row, you find fruits, baskets of pears, 
mostly green, indifferent peaches, apples and cherries, 
Mamaias in abundance, small apricots, sapotes both 
green and blue (neither good for anything), alligator 



In Mexico 205 

pear, and, for a rarity, here is a woman who has some 
mushrooms. 

Under that awning, you find oranges, limes, musk- 
melons, watermelons (six cents a slice), goat's cheese, 
eggs, chocolate makers, coarse wooden spoons, etc., 
and pears and apricots which you can buy cheaper 
from the market women farther back. 

Passing a little higher up in this row, and around 
the fountain in the centre of the square, you find cook- 
ing utensils, earthen and iron, and near by, the chickens, 
turkeys, and pigeons. Those piles of white chalky- 
looking substance are lime, used in cooking, etc. On 
Thursday, the great market day, you find piles of beans 
of all colors and sizes. Flowers are also seen frequently 
in Market — pinks appear to be favorites. I have 
omitted bananas and plantains, cocoanuts and pine- 
apples. The cocoanut is very fine, but I think the 
plantain the best fruit I have seen. I have also omitted 
the fruit of the cactus, two kinds, green and purple. 
Peppers abound always. These are in little piles 
on matting — the women sitting by them in a way 
peculiarly Mexican, on their legs doubled under them ; 
all sit in that way. 

Friday, nth. I am truly thankful that there is a 
prospect of our having another mail. Genl, T., I hear, 
received information from Genl. Childs to-day, that 
Genl. Cadwalader was on his way from Vera Cruz, 
and that he would come up with him. Genl. Cad- 
walader must certainly bring a mail, and that mail 
must certainly bring a letter from you. When this 
poor scrawl is to start on it's way to you I cannot say. 
As yet, I see not the glimmer of a chance. 

Genl. Santa Anna, finding that the Mexican Congress 



2o6 An Artillery Officer 

kept his resignation under consideration four days, 
and that they did not promptly urge him to remain in 
power, on the end of this month withdraws his resig- 
nation. The plea he gives is twofold; first, that the 
American Army may be expected to advance on the 
Capital at any moment, and that it would endanger 
the Country for us to do so, whilst the Congress is either 
organizing a new Govt, or before the new President has 
had time to make necessary arrangements for defence; 
secondly, that he has received from all sides the most 
urgent entreaties to remain in power, etc., etc. The 
document, his resignation, and the reports of his con- 
duct at Cerro Gordo and Amozoc have done him no good. 
They have lowered him very much in my estimation. 

To-morrow is to be Genl. Worth's big day. He is to 
inspect, review, and drill our Division. I saw him 
this afternoon, and told him that I had heard of better 
ground — he said that it was better, but not so public. 
So he flatters himself that we will make a good show. 
I hope that he may not be disappointed. I will write 
the result. As we have to rise very early to-morrow 
to prepare, I must retire to bed early, and will now 
take my leave for the night. 

Saturday evening, I2th. Om field day, as the EngHsh 
call it, is passed. The Division made very pretty 
display, while halted. But I cannot say much that 
is favorable for their marching — but allowance must 
be made; how can it be otherwise, with troops who 
have never been properly instructed. Muskets placed 
in their hands as soon as they join the Compy., and 
probably placed on guard the next week, these men at 
once fancy that they are soldiers, and that they know 
everything about their duties. Such a course would 



In Mexico 207 

ruin any recruits. The crowd of spectators was very 
large, embracing, I was glad to hear, some of the best 
families of the City ; among them was the Lt. Gov. of 
this State. Genl. Worth did not inspect and he kept 
us out but a short time. This was in consequence of 
his not feeling well enough to take the Division through 
many manoeuvres. 

I see by some of the papers received by the last mail, 
that Duncan's' Regt. is not among those ordered to 
join Genl. Scott's Army. Duncan will therefore be 
with your brave old Zach. Where he is, or what he 
is doing, I know not. I presume that they are much 
better informed upon these points in the Cities of Mexico 
and Washington, than we are here. 

I have not, I think, told you of the fate of my letter 
No. II. It was given to a Mexican who has been at- 
tached to Genl. Worth for several months; this man 
returned last week very much emaciated, the Genl. 
says, and reports that he was taken prisoner, carried 
to some place off the main road, and that he secreted 
the mail where no one could get it. He was thought- 
ful enough to return to the Genl. a letter he had written 
to Mrs. W. Now, how my trusty Mexican could 
abstract that letter from the others without his being 
seen, I cannot conceive, unless he was very badly 
guarded, in which case he might have escaped sooner. 
At all events No. ii is destined to remain in Mexico. 

I do not remember any incidents of much interest 
contained in that letter, but the foolish Donquixotish 
march of Santa Anna to the neighborhood of Amozoc 
the day we lay there (15th May) and his retreat back 
again. With the usual mendacity of his reports, 
he says that he bantered us to fight in the open field 

' Mrs. Anderson's brother. 



208 An Artillery Officer 

which we declined. What fools he must take Mexicans 
to be — they know that he had a large body of Cavalry, 
and as we had only two squadrons, if he had desired 
an engagement, he must have attacked our Infantry. 
He took precious good care to keep out of the way of 
our Infy. and his Cavalry rapidly dispersed on receiving 
a few shells in their midst from Col. Duncan's Battery. 
The less his biographers say of "Amozoc" the better 
for his Milty. reputation. His coming down was a 
silly and immilitary proceeding. 

Another statement he makes is also false — that a 
train of two hundred wagons was coming towards 
Amozoc with a very light escort, and that it was his 
intention to cut it off, but the train, instead of marching 
at the usual hour, broke up its last camp very early 
in the night, and thus got into a secure position before 
he reached them. No train of wagons came up but 
the one accompanying Genl. Quitman's Brigade, which 
was amply strong to have whipped the General's 
Cavalry. But enough of correction — I am not engaged 
in writing a history of the War, but merely make these 
corrections, to let you see how untrue will be the Mexi- 
can Official documents on this War. 

I hope that our historians will give us the truth, 
even were it to make us feel a little sore — but thus far, 
we have nothing to fear. Our course has been plain — 
very few acts have been committed, even by the Vol- 
unteers, which have required and received chastisement. 
But I am devoting too much space to my evening's 
speculations and must now bid you good-night. 

Sunday, 13th. 
My kind friend Major Wade, having nothing to do, 
has been polite enough to devote all the evening to me. 



In Mexico 209 

and leaves me now at an hour so late that I am de- 
prived of the pleasure of a long chat with you to-night. 

I have not been in the City to-day, and have, besides 
attending to my proper duties, written letters ; one to 
Larz partly on business, one to Mr. Austen, another to a 
Mr. OHphant, both of Uniontown, Pa. Mr. A.'s 
letter to me was full of thanks for my "kind attentions " 
to him at Vera Cruz, and urging me to pay him a visit 
with my family. Mr. OHphant wrote to ask me whether 
Mr. A. had been with me at the siege, and in what 
capacity he served. 

The news is to-day that a party of 3000 horsemen have 
gone on the road towards Vera Cruz for the purpose 
of proctiring subsistence and also to intercept the 
train of wagons, sent from this place a week since. 
They will catch a tartar. 

The Mexican papers publish a letter from Mrs. 
Col. Childs to her husband which contains some 
political remarks which her husband would rather not 
see in print. She speaks of President Polk and says 
that his course is driving many of his old friends to 
the support of Genl. Taylor. This letter was taken 

from the saddle-bags of a Col. who was 

coming on as a bearer of despatches, and who rode with 
the advance guard, instead of remaining with the main 
body of his escort. I hope that he had none of your 
letters. I shall know in a few days. The Mexican 
paper states that they have a large bimdle of letters. 
The vandals should send all private letters to the 
Army — no civilized soldiery should violate the sanctity 
of family correspondence. At Cerro Gordo I saw a 
letter addressed to Genl. Santa Anna, the seal of which 
had not been broken. Enough for to-night. May 
God continue to protect and guard you. 



210 An Artillery Officer 

Monday, 14th. 

My birthday. How can I better commence this 
day's letter than by thanking our Heavenly Father 
for all His mercies towards me and mine, and 
praying Him that He may continue to guard 
and protect us, and long before another year passes, || 
that it may please Him to unite us together. What * 
would I not give to have had you with me to-day! 
This afternoon, I accidentally went to my old 
friend's, Capt. Irwin, and there found another class- 
mate, Capt. Huger, and a party. Some one mentioned 
that it was my birthday, and my good friend, contrary 
to my entreaties, brought out a bottle of good old 
Madeira, to drink to my health. And as far as friend- 
ship could go, all was well and happy. 

But what was this to me, when I thought of those 
who were far, far away. This is peculiarly to me 
a day for home thoughts and home feelings. Think 
not, my wife, that those thoughts make me feel sad and 
lonely. That it is in a measure so, is true; but still 
it is not a sadness without a light of pleasure. Hope 
tells me that we cannot be much longer separated, and 
that then my joy will be so great that I will count as 
nothing all the little discomforts, etc., during our separa- 
tion. God grant that I may very soon be restored to 
you. As I shall probably close this letter to-morrow, 
that it may be ready for any mail that may go out, 
and that I may commence another, I shall close for 
to-night. No news from the Mexican Army to-day — 
the fact is they can't keep up an Army. 

Tuesday, 15th. 
The report alluded to in my scribblings of the 
14th has been contradicted, and then re-asserted. 



In Mexico 211 

To-day 't is said that Genl. Valencia has a rabble of 
badly armed and undisciplined men in the City of 
Mexico awaiting us, about 16,000 — that their boasted 
fortifications along the route will be easily mastered. 

My opinion about reports taken even to Hd. Qrs. 
is that they are frequently carried by men out of em- 
ployment, who hope by their pretended assiduity and 
zeal to secure employment in some capacity with the 
Army. Other reports are doubtless fabricated in 
the Mexican Camp and sent out to produce an effect 
on their countrymen, or to attempt to deceive us. 
I therefore rarely think it necessary to report the rumors 
of the day, and then hear, a day or two after I have 
heard them, the latest news from Mexico, or from the 
Mexican Army. 

I am rejoiced that I can say that I now daily witness the 
verification of my prediction about the change of feeling 
which Genl. Scott's course would work in the Army. 
I hear every day the strongest expressions of admira- 
tion and implicit confidence expressed towards, and in 
him, by men who a few short weeks since received a 
toast alluding to his gallant services during the last 
war with chilling coldness. 

Dr. Tripler, who has just left me, says that he 
heard Genl. Twiggs (not notorious for speaking well 
of his superiors) say that he considered Genl. S. one of 
the greatest generals of the age, that Genl. Taylor 
ought not to be mentioned in the same day with him. 

I am thus particular in dwelling on this subject 
because I know how much pleasure and satisfaction 
these facts will give you. Father knows the Genl. 
as well, indeed much better than I do, and he will not 
be astonished that at every battle, and by every 
important movement, he gains warm friends. 



212 An Artillery Officer 

Genl. Worth is, I am sorry to say, not well. He 
looks very badly, and told me this morning that he 
had no appetite, and coiild scarcely bear the sight of 
food. Wlien we get into active motion again, the 
Genl. will brighten up again, but were we to remain 
inactive, he would, I fear, soon break do\vTi. 

Genl. Cadwalader and Genl. Shields will be up in a 
few days. I do not see what can be done with Genl. 
Shields— should he be sufficiently restored— as it 
seems to me that his commission as an officer of the 
Army expired with the term of service of the Volun- 
teers who were called out last year. 

I do not see as much of some of the Vols, as I ought, 
and as woiild be agreeable to me. But on returning 
from our morning drills, I feel so tired, that I generally, 
instead of visiting after dinner, indulge in a siesta. 

Col. Butler has been remarkably kind in making 
frequent calls, and I have been to see him but once. 
I will call to-morrow to see him. He informs me that 
Genl. Butler was most anxious to have me with him, 
but I am almost certain that I mentioned this subject 
in a previous letter. 

The Editors have followed us to this place, and 
issued on the 12th inst. the first number of Aiiierican 
Star— No. 2. If anything of interest should be treated 
of in the papers, I will send them. This first number is 
filled with an order pubHshing the Military laws passed 
by the last Congress, and by late news from the United 
States, and would furnish you with not one line of 
interesting reading. 

An anecdote is told of Genl. Scott which should be 
mentioned. As he was coming to this place with an 
escort of only four Companies of Cavalry, the advance 
guard sent a messenger to report to the Genl. that the 



In Mexico 213 

Mexicans were approaching in large force. The Genl. 
was, when the messenger came up, engaged in con- 
versation with some officers, and simply directed the 
messenger to report to Col. Harney. Those present 
say that he evinced not the least concern, and having 
sent the man to the Commanding Officer, he resumed 
his conversation as if nothing had occurred. 

And now in fact No. 14 must be closed. No. 15 will 
be commenced to-morrow, and will, I fear, be finished 
also before this goes. 

June 1 8th. I have just heard that a mail will be 
sent to-morrow. Nothing of much interest since the 
last date of this letter. No. 15 is not sufficiently 
advanced to commence its journey. 

No. 15. PuEBLA, Mex. 

Wednesday, June 16, 1847. ' 

This has been an interesting rumor-day. We hear 
that Col. Mcintosh, on his way up with seven hundred 
men, was repeatedly attacked, and that at the National 
Bridge, affairs were so serious, that he halted and sent 
back to Genl. Cadwalader, whom he was preceding, 
for reinforcements. The two commands, Cadwal- 
ader's and Mcintosh's, would arrive last night, report 
says, at Jalapa. 

If the report, of Col. M.'s being compelled to wait 
for relief, be true, I fear it will raise the spirits of the 
guerrilla parties, and will cause us a great deal of annoy- 
ance. It is said, too, that the Mexicans have become 
so daring in Vera Cruz, that they take mules from the 
pens. Col. Wilson should give them one or two shells 
from the Castle, if the City authorities do not put a 
stop to such proceedings. 



I 

214 An Artillery Officer 

Last night, too, was not to be devoid of interest. 
One Alcalde deserted, taking with him half the City- 
guard. These are small affairs, and will have no effect 
on our Military operations. Genl. Scott strikes at higher 
game, and will not harass his troops by sending out 
marauding parties. He will, I presume, quietly and 
steadily make his preparations, and, at the proper 
moment, strike a blow at the great City. 

I give you all the rumors reported to me. I have not 
sifted them to find out how little of truth there is in 
them. Subsequent parts of this letter will tell how well 
the false and the true are blended together. 

Last night, just as I had finished No. 14, I received a 
long note from Lt. Judd, requesting my approval of 
an accompanying application for a transfer to Bragg's 
Compy. I retiu-ned the application with a polite 
note, wishing him distinction, etc., and declining to 
have anything to do with it. Although I do not care 
about having him in the Compy., he has, as I think, 
been so long engaged in various schemes to keep away 
from it, that his transfer shall come without my sanc- 
tion, if he get it at all. 

I saw our "innocent friend," Lt. Hall, to-day. He 
does not look in good health. I enquired about his 
mother, from whom, he tells me, he has not heard 
for a long time. 

I have looked in nearly all the principal stores in 
Puebla, and I cannot find a fine Mexican blanket as 
small as I wish. If I cannot get one in the City 
of Mexico, you shall have a large one I bought 
a day or two since. It is a very neat pattern, much 
prettier than the gaudy ones I frequently see here. 

In describing the dress of the Mexicans, I find, by 
further observation, I have not noticed one style of 



In Mexico 215 

female attire worn by some of the "tortilla" sellers, 
who, instead of wearing petticoats, wrap around their 
waists a piece of blanket, which sometimes appears to 
be scant of going once and a half around them. Their 
black hair is passed in a coil around the largest part of 
the head, and is frequently interwoven with red cotton. 
I have not seen a bonnet in Puebla — all, rich and poor, 
wear shawls, or ribosas on the head. 

Of beggars, this place has a large supply, and they are 
the most importimate scamps I ever saw. Some repeat 
something like a petition urging the gift of alms for 
some Saint's sake, which they commence before you 
get to them, and continue with after you pass. 
Others are silent, and merely extend the hand. There 
are very few who cannot support themselves, were they 
inclined to do anything, but they find it easier to beg 
than to labor for the little money they need to purchase 
what will clothe and feed them. 

Thursday, 1 7th. The correction of yesterday's rumor 
is — that Col. Mcintosh's command has dwindled from 
seven to three hundred. It seems that he, instead of 
being kept at bay by the enemy, drove them back 
every time — that a few of his men were wounded and 
that he lost a few mules. He parked his train and 
sent back for reinforcements, because he did not know 
what force might be brought against him. 

Genl. Scott is reported, by Mr. Judd, to have said 
to-day, that he had promised some of the gentlemen 
another fight, but that as the news to-day was more 
favorable, he was afraid there would not be another. 

We had another Brigade drill to-day, under Col. 
Garland. Major Wade not being very well, threw the 
command of the Regt. on me again. About a mile and 



2i6 An Artillery Officer 

a half from the City, we have a very good open space for 
our manoeuvres. To-day, at the time we were there, 
Lt. Col. Duncan's Battery and Genl. Twiggs's Division 
were on the same plain. 

Genl. Worth complains a good deal. He has not 
been well since he has joined our Army. With his 
imprudence in eating, and in improperly exposing 
himself, I see but little chance of his getting well. We 
are very much in want of his instruction. He has 
only been in the field in command of his Division once. 
Genl. Twiggs drills his Division six days in the week. 
Good-night. 

Friday 1 8th. Two very interesting visitors have been 
in my room all the evening, and have just left me. 
Their conversation has been so animated, that now 
that they have left, so strong a reaction has taken 
place, that I am almost ready to fall asleep with the 
pen in my hand. No news of consequence to-day. 

I read this afternoon an address to the Mexican 
Nation by "An officer of the United States Army" 
(Col. Hitchcock) which some think will produce good 
results. He traces, in a very simple and clear manner, 
the origin of the independence of Texas — shews that 
it was actually achieved by Texans themselves, that 
the cause of our citizens' taking such lively and active 
interest in the difficulties between Mexico and Texas 
was the cruel and inhuman butchery of Col. Fannin's 
party, who surrendered under a promise that they 
should be sent to the United States. 

States that Texas had been independent of Mexico 
for the period of ten years, when the United States 
acknowledged her independence, which we had pre- 
viously refused to acknowledge. That Texas, being 



In Mexico 217 

independent, had a right to act as she pleased on the 
question of Annexation, and that we had a right to 
receive her. 

Throws the origin of the War on the Mexicans, in 
their actual attack on Genl. Taylor. Traces the pro- 
gress of the War, and in giving their reverses, very 
modestly points out the great disparity of our num- 
bers, and gives instances of the false reports of Santa 
Anna. 

States our anxiety for peace, and in contradiction 
of our hostility to their rehgion, states that our Comdg. 
Genl. lost an accomplished and lovely daughter who 
died in a Convent, receiving all the rights of the Catho- 
lic religion, and asks whether he can be inimical to 
that Church, etc., etc. 

I will send you one of the papers containing this 
address and hope you may receive it, as, in my synopsis, 
I have omitted several important points. I would 
have left out a few sentences, but, as a whole, I hope 
good results may spring from it. 

I saw the Genl. a moment this morning; he was very 
kind, but so much engaged that I sat only a moment 
with him. 

Saturday 19th. I was startled this afternoon, by 
an annunciation by one of the officers that a mail was 
to be sent to Vera Cruz. No. 14 was rapidly closed, 
after adding a line or two of this day's date, and I 
hurried down to the Post Office with it. Much to my 
regret the Postmaster knew nothing of the mail's 
reported leaving. I then went to Genl. Hd. Qrs. and 
there ascertained that there was no prospect of a 
mail's being sent for an indefinite period. My poor 
letter now rests quietly amid the leaves of my old 



2i8 An Artillery Officer 

portefeuille : and I, with scarce a hope of your seeing 
for many long months my daily scribblings, return, 
because it makes me happier to do so, to my evening 
chat with you. 

To-day I have been trying a Mexican pony, which, 
if he had pleased me, the Quarter-Master's Dept. would 
have paid for — I being entitled to a horse, as Acting 
Major. I did not like him, — indeed, I do not fancy the 
gait of any of these horses. They are ridden with very 
severe bits, which, by Httle more than the pressure of 
the little finger on the rein, will bring the horse upon 
his haunches from a gallop. As the Mexicans use 
enormous spurs, between them and the bit, the horse 
moves as if ready at any moment to come to a dead 
halt, producing a kind of gait perfectly enchanting to 
the Mexican dandy. 

No news to-day from any quarter. Last evening 
orders were sent to all our commands, that patrols 
should be kept out constantly during the night. This 
is intended to pick up our men who may remain out 
of their quarters. One, a Volunteer, was murdered 
last night. He had no right to be out at night. These 
patrols may also catch any re-enforcements who 
desire to join the Alcalde. I wonder if he was not 
driven away by being compelled to transact business 
with our Lt. Col. If he treated him as uncivilly and 
insultingly as he did some of our Regt. whilst under 
his dynasty — he will not conciliate a single Mexican 
who transacts business with him. 

My Sub-Lt. Andrews has just left me. I was glad to 
see him, as he is unwell and feels homesick and lonely. 
His disease, jaundice, always prostrates the energy 
and spirits of a man. The whole Army seems to be 
acclimating, as the sick lists of all our commands are 



In Mexico 219 

large — that of "G" Co. is slowly, I hope permanently, 
decreasing. 

Sunday, June 20th. Another week has passed, and 
God has been pleased to return me to my Sunday 
evening's chat with you, in the enjoyment of excellent 
health. My impHcit confidence in Him renders me 
much less dissatisfied with my lot than I would 
otherwise be. I feel and thank Him for it daily, that 
He guards and protects my treasures — that that pro- 
tection is as certain and continued during my absence 
as whilst I am with you. May our hearts be ever full 
of gratitude and thanks to Him, and may He soon 
lead us into His fold. I did not go to church to-day, 
though I ought to have gone this afternoon, as there 
was preaching at Genl. Hd. Qrs. by a Chaplain appointed 
to the 8th Regt. Infy. under the last law. 

Army reports are to-day important, and in some 
instances conflicting; for instance, one report states 
that Genl. Taylor has been captured by Genl. Bravo, 
near Saltillo; another, that having withdrawn all his 
force from the upper part of the Rio Grande, he is 
now with his Army at Brazos Santiago — his destination, 
probably. Vera Cruz. The first report is not credited 
by any American, and probably by no Mexican of 
common -sense ; the latter may be partly true. We 
want all the force we can get; the larger the strength 
of our Army, the more important will be the results 
of our operations and the sooner will a peace be made. 

Another rumor says that Genl. Urea arrived last night 
at Nopolucan (about forty-five miles hence) on his way 
to meet Genl. Cadwalader and Lt. Col. Childs. He is 
said to have 5000 men, Infy. and Cavalry, with two 
pieces of Arty. 'T is also said that we have lost another 



220 An Artillery Officer 

mail and that Mr. N. P. Trist has been writing infor- 
mally to the British Minister in Mexico, and that he is 
now about communicating officially with him. I may 
even think with some little patience of his acts, if 
they lead to an honorable peace — though I shall always 
entertain and express my opinion of the wrong done to 
Genl. Scott in this affair, of a Special Minister being 
with an Army in the field, the Genl. being at its head. 
Have I not given you Army rumors enough for one 
day? I think so, and I shall therefore omit some of 
smaller calibre which have been thrown into our midst. 
As my letters will probably, by the time they are sent 
off, fill a good-sized octavo, I think I must write less 
daily than has been my habit. Good-night. 

Monday, 21st. Our soldiers, under the influence of 
liquor, forget they are in an enemy's city, occasionally 
stay out of their quarters all night, and are found in 
the morning either killed or badly wounded — the latter 
is the case with one of the Germans who joined me at 
Tampa Bay. I hope it may prove a good lesson to 
the other men. 

The Mexicans have been tampering with our soldiers. 
A Milty. Commission is in session to-day investigating 
the case of a German and a Mexican, who are accused of 
enticing our men to desert. The German is stated to 
have been a Capt. in the Mexican Army at Cerro 
Gordo and was arrested by a Sergeant of the 8 th 
Infy., who had been told by some privates that the 
German had given them handbills printed in German, 
addressed to the Germans in our Army, and urging 
them to desert with their horses and arms. If the fact 
be proved and he is condemned by the Court, he dies. 

Yesterday, Genl. Alvares appeared in the plain, 



In Mexico 221 

some miles from the City, with a large body of Cavalry. 
We are so poor in Cavalry, that we can use that Arm 
for few other purposes than reconnoissances and in 
pursuit after battle. We cannot send out a force to 
meet one of any respectability. Where we are with 
such an Army as we ought to have, say of 20,000, we 
should have about 2000 excellent Cavalry. 

I paid Col. Butler, South Carolina, a visit yesterday 
afternoon; he introduced again the subject of Genl. 
W. O. Butler's conversation with him relative to my 
joining him; he is very much worried that the Adjt. 
Genl. did not make me the offer. I cannot see why 
Genl. Jones did not. I fear that Genl. Butler will 
think that I received his request, and that I have 
treated him discourteously in not having, at least, 
thanked him for the honor he did me by having made 
me so kind an offer. If I knew where he was, I should 
at once, that is to say, by the first mail, write to him. 

Genl. Scott with Col. Hitchcock and one of his 
Aide-de-Camps came in whilst we were at the Colonel's. 
The Genl. is pretty well, but says he is dying for want 
of exercise. 

Yesterday a party of eight gamblers went about 
fourteen miles into the country to buy mules; this 
morning two returned wounded, and reported that they 
were attacked by about eighty Mexican soldiers and 
that the others they supposed were killed, or taken 
prisoners. Their going so far with so few men, was 
an act of suicidal madness and folly. 

I drilled the Regt. this morning. Major W. went out 
as a looker-on. He says that he has not drilled a 
battalion for twenty years and that he is too nervous 
to undertake it now. I am anxious for him to take 
command, as comments will be made if he does not. 



222 An Artillery Officer 

Certainly, Genl. Cadwalader will arrive in two days 
and then I shall hear from you. God grant that you 
will continue to cheer me with a continuation of good 
news. Good-night. 

Tuesday, 22nd. Blessings come and rest upon the 
head of our Genl.! I heard this afternoon, confi- 
dentially (of course I may tell you), that the Genl. is 
about making arrangements for having our mails 
carried and brought. He is, I hear, afraid that he 
will have to pay more than may be agreeable to the 
Govt. But it cannot be that to save a few thousands a 
month, our Govt, would be willing to have all commun- 
ication with our Army cut off. Certain it is that no 
one who has relatives or friends in our Army, will ob- 
ject to any sum Genl. Scott may find himself com- 
pelled to pay. Humanity demands this measure, as 
peace may be declared without our Imowing anything 
of it. 

Genl. C. has not arrived. The Milty. Commission 
have sent their proceedings to Genl. Scott in the case 
of the German but the Genl. has not acted on them. 
We have had no rumors of any consequence to-day. 
In your letter after you receive this, I wish you to send 
me the size of your hand and foot, as I may find some 
gloves, etc., in Mexico, that would be curiosities. The 
gold embroidery of Puebla is richer and more beautiful 
than any I ever saw, but it is said that the embroidery 
of the City of Mexico surpasses this. 

As the Pay Dept. will probably have no more funds, 
whilst we are in this country, than to supply us only 
occasionally with a month's pay, I may be compelled 
to be more economical than I otherwise would be. 
But I intend, as far as my means may permit, to bring 



In Mexico 223 

you specimens of curiosity and of interest from this 
country. 

Do urge the American peace party to receive with 
warm hearts the first whisperings of peace from these 
deluded people, who seem not to think that each month 
adds to our strength and weakens theirs. Every emi- 
grant who follows our Army comes as no friend of Span- 
ish supremacy in this Country. I have a faint hope 
that in my letter to-morrow night, I may thank you 
for a letter, or letters. I will at all events retire with 
that delightful expectation. Good-night, God bless 
and protect you. 

Wednesday, 23rd. Vain hope — no mail — no news of 
the approach of Genl. Cadwalader. A command has 
been sent to meet him, and to bring the mail, but it 
has not returned. To-day I have been pretty con- 
stantly engaged in attending to my duties of Division 
Officer of the Day, an honor to which I am elevated 
by my useless assignment as Acting Major. I left my 
quarters at nine this morning to report to Genl. Worth ; 
from his quarters, I proceeded on horseback to visit 
the different regiments and guards of the Division, 
and did not return till about two. 

This is very different from the daily routine of duty 
I used to attend to at Tampa Bay. At eight I visit 
such parts of the Command as I think proper. But 
instead of being Officer of the Day every other day, I 
am here every tenth day. 

One of the Guerrilla captains was recognized and 
taken in the City to-day. It would have been well 
if he had been shot in the act of being taken, but I do 
not see that we can do otherwise with the legalized 
robber than to keep him in prison. I have no doubt 



224 An Artillery Officer 

that the City is daily visited by these men. But they 
can do but little more than gratify their curiosity by 
these visits, as our guards are so strong and our troops 
so well posted that they will not attempt to commit 
any depredations on our property or persons. 

Lt. Judd has been transferred toSriggs's Compy. — 
thus have the "G.'s" lost his valuable services for 
ever. I shall probably get Lt. Burton in his place. 
As Lt. B. is in California I am not likely to see him for 
a long time; this I do not regret, as Lt. Shields, the 
2nd Lieut, of the Compy., is efficient and active. 

The men are now nearly all well — the poor little 
drummer boy is, and has been for several days, very 
ill. He is better to-day than he was yesterday, and 
will, I hope, recover. The wounded man is also doing 
well; his injuries were not very grievous. Good-night, 
etc. 

Thursday, 24th. This is the anniversary of the birth 
of one of my brothers. 'T is a great day with the Catho- 
lics — birthday of John the Baptist — and especially 
charming to children. Nearly all the boys I have seen 
in the streets to-day are attired as officers or soldiers — 
hats, caps, coats, flags (Mexican and a few American), 
wooden guns, pikes, and swords are found everywhere 
on the little strutting heroes. It is delightful to see 
the joy of the little ones. How you would enjoy 
seeing them ! 

This morning a note was received from Genl. Crit- 
tenden, stating that he had met with serious opposition 
all the way from Vera Cruz, and that he would leave 
Perote this day. He cannot reach us sooner than the 
29th or 30th. The note gave no particulars; it was 
written on a very small piece of paper, and was brought 



In Mexico 225 

by a Mexican, concealed In some part of his dress. 
We are nearly as much in doubt as before. We do 
not know whether he has lost any of his men, whether 
he brings a mail. And, on a very important point, 
we also long for information, whether he brings a very 
large sum of money. 

The Pay Dept., instead of using its funds in paying 
the men, is letting the Commissary and Quartermaster's 
Depts. use them in procuring food for man and beast. 
Genl. Worth is, I am happy to say, much better than 
he was when I mentioned him a few days ago. He 
says that one or two days in the saddle will make him 
as well as ever. Something may have occurred this 
morning, peculiarly agreeable to him — he is a man of 
powerful impulses. 

To-morrow I will be engaged in some serious matters, 
I presume, as I am a member of a Council of War to 
convene early in the morning. Capt. W. C. De Hart 
is our Recorder — we could not have a better. Lt. 
Col. Garland is the President, Capt. F. Taylor is a 
member. I do not know of what number the Council 
is composed, as I have not been furnished with the 
order. More of this hereafter. 

Since I have recovered from the Perote chill, I find 
the temperature here very agreeable. The night is 
cool enough to sleep under a blanket and in the day- 
time you are but little incommoded by the heat of 
the sun, and you always find it pleasantly cool, either 
in the shade of the street or in the house. 

It rains now daily, either between three and five 
P.M. or at night. The Mexicans tell me that the rainy 
season continues till October. But this is spoken of 
as the rainy month. The muskmelons have disap- 
peared from the market; I find nothing new but a 



226 An Artillery Officer 

fruit called mango, which I have not tasted. Good- 
night. 

Friday, 25th. The Council of War, Col. Clarke (in 
place of Col. Gariand, sick), Bvt. Lt. Col. C. F. Smith, 
Maj. Bainbridge, Captains Anderson and F. Taylor, 
were in session this morning. The case before us is 
that of a Mexican attempting to get one of our men to 
desert. The evidence does not seem, thus far, to be 
conclusive. 

The session of another Court near us has been of 
greater interest than our own. A Coiut of Inquiry, 
composed of Maj. Genl. Quitman, Brig. Generals 
Twiggs and Persifer Smith, met this morning on the 
application of Bvt. Maj. Genl. Worth to investigate 
his conduct in some particulars of his command here, 
for which he had been censured by his old patron and 
most steadfast friend, Genl. Scott. As we were 
necessarily engaged in our own duties, I was not in the 
Court of Inquiry long enough to hear the points of 
the case; but, from some of Genl. Worth's remarks, 
I infer that Genl. Scott disapproved of certain Articles 
of Agreement with the City Authorities imder which 
Genl. Scott thinks we entered this City, by which the 
cases of some Mexicans were tried before their ovm 
authorities for murdering a soldier. 

Genl. Scott having, in his order declaring Martial 
Law to govern in all the places occupied by our troops 
in Mexico, decided that all similar cases should come 
before MiHtary Commissions. These Articles of Agree- 
ment, if sanctioned by Genl. W., necessarily and of 
course rescinded Genl. Scott's orders. 

Another case is, I hear, of more recent occurrence. 
While I was Officer oj the Day on the 14th inst. an Irish- 



In Mexico 227 

man came into our quarters to warn us against allowing 
our men to buy articles from the Mexican women, who 
have their little market in front of our quarters, stating 
that he had been informed by a very respectable Mexi- 
can lady, that the women put something poisonous 
in what they cooked. 

I did not credit the story, as none of our men had com- 
plained of being made sick, and I had never seen any of 
the women selling any cooked articles to the soldiers — 
and again the whole story seemed improbable, that a 
parcel of poor women, trying to make a little money 
by selling their fruits, etc., should make such an attempt, 
the detection of which would be certain and easy and 
the punishment of which must be so severe. Of so 
little consequence did I think the man's story that I 
did not allude to it in reporting to Genl. Worth the 
next morning — thinking it unnecessary to trouble him 
with an idle tale. 

Three days after, we received a circular from Genl. 
W. stating that he had received information from a 
source entitled to full credit, that certain Mexicans 
were mixing poison with the food sold to our soldiers, 
and urging the sdldiers to confine themselves to their 
rations and not to purchase any articles of food from 
the Mexicans. 

Two or three days after the receipt of this circular, 
an order came from Genl. Worth, stating that in obedi- 
ence to instructions from the Genl. in Chief all copies 
of his previous circular should be withdrawn and re- 
turned to his office. This is, I believe, Article of In- 
vestigation No. 2. How many others there are, or 
whether I am right in the above, I do not now posi- 
tively know. But I will give you further particulars as 
I learn them. 



228 An Artillery Officer 

This difficulty is deeply to be regretted, but that 
Genl. Scott is right in the matter, I do not doubt. 
The Mexicans may try to make capital of it, but they 
will find, that though Genl. W. may be disposed to 
kick at the traces, he will draw like a true horse when 
work is to be done. Enough for to-night. Good-night. 
God be with you. 

Saturday, the 26th. We finished the Mexican's case 
to-day. In the Court of Inquiry, I hear that Genl. 
Worth proposed a question, which after deliberation the 
Court refused to put to the witness. The Genl. then 
stated he had no further questions, whereupon the Court 
adjourned till nine to-morrow. Major Kirby says that 
there is so much bitterness between the parties that 
this split is for ever. All regret, deeply regret it. 

No news from Mexico. Though for the last two or 
three days we have had rumors here that Mr. N. P. 
Trist is in correspondence with Mexican Commis- 
sioners; doubtful. 

Genl. S. received a letter from Genl. Cadwalader 
informing him that he had received instructions from 
Genl. Pillow to remain at Perote till Genl. Pillow's 
arrival — the reasons for these instructions, Genl. P. 
states, "he cannot now give." Thus is the arrival of 
Genl. Cadwalader with the long desired mail indefi- 
nitely postponed. We are truly imfortunate, and have 
only one source of consolation in this affair, which is, 
that Genl. Pillow may bring us a later mail from the 
United States than Genl. Cadwalader has. 

I ought to receive a letter from you up to the 20th 
of May informing me of your arrival and domestica- 
tion in your summer quarters. I feel some anxiety 
to hear what arrangements your Grandmother makes 



In Mexico 229 

for the summer, who is to remain with her, etc. Your 
letters will have answered all my surmises long before 
you receive this. 

The weather here is very pleasant for us who are 
housed, but with these daily or nightly rains, must 
be exceedingly disagreeable for those who are in tents. 

Sunday, 27th. I sat two or three hours this after- 
noon with my most kind friend Genl. S. and though the 
news communicated to me was strictly confidential, 
you may without breach of confidence be made my 
confidante of the heads of it. The Secy. Br. Legation 
left here night before last. Mr. N. P. Trist has entered 
upon his duties as Commissioner — his letter has been 
received by the Govt. Congress is not now in session, 
but Genl. Santa Anna is attempting to reassemble 
them in order to refer the question to them. 

He has expressed himself in favor of having a Com- 
missioner appointed to meet Mr. Trist but will not assume 
(indeed he is expressly forbidden by an Act of Congress 
to do so) the responsibility of making such appointment. 
Mr. Trist having forwarded in a proper letter the docu- 
ments presenting him in his official capacity, Genl. S. 
immediately acknowledges their receipt, and recog- 
nizing him as deputed with high powers states that 
he is willing to confer with Mr. Trist, either by writing 
or orally, on all questions entrusted to him. Of course 
imtil this offer is disposed of, or at all events, for a reason- 
able time, we are fast here. God in His infinite wisdom 
incline the hearts of both Nations to peace. With what 
gratitude shall I receive the joyful news that the war 
is over, and that orders are out for my return to my 
blessed home. lam not, however, sanguine; a com- 
menced negotiation does not necessarily end in peace. 



230 An Artillery Officer 

I hope that the United States will be generous and 
liberal in her terms — she may well be so. Much care 
must be taken to soothe Mexican pride, which has been 
sorely wounded. We should be, we can be magnani- 
mous, without our motives being misunderstood. I 
also read Genl. S.'s reply to a very impertinent letter 
from Mr. T. (alluded to in a previous letter) ; it is cruelly 
severe — I do not see how Mr. T. can ever look the 
Genl. in the face. He closes by telling him never 
again to dare to write to him in that manner, etc. 

The proceedings of our Council in the Mexican's 
case are published — he was acquitted. To-morrow, we 
have a Belgian before us — the proof will, I fear, be 
very direct, in his case — persuading to desert and 
offering to buy all horses, arms, etc., which might be 
brought by deserters. This letter will probably tell 
the result of his trial. 

No information of the South Carolinian (Capt. 
Kirshaw) who took charge of No. 13, sent on the 4th 
inst. You may have received it by this time. I pray 
God that the day may soon come when we may at last 
have regular mails giving good news from home. 
Good-night, etc., etc. 

Monday, 28th. I hear to-day that the mail which 
left on the 4th is on its way back to us. How deeply 
do I regret this, as I know that you will be exceedingly 
anxious and uneasy at not hearing from me. You 
will not be able, I know, to banish your apprehensions. 

Here I am in excellent health, and almost free from 
the annoyances of the rumors of war, and yet I cannot 
get a letter to you, nor can I receive one from you as 
soon as it ought to come. But as yet they do come, and 
I am most truly grateful for that blessing. 



In Mexico 231 

We did not commence the trial of the Belgian this 
morning, but propose taking his case up to-morrow. 
I have been amused to-day in listening to the various 
rumors about the negotiations. Everybody seems to 
believe that something is in the wind, and all are so 
deeply interested that it seems cruel to withhold light 
from them, when I find them standing in the dark — 
but I cannot say a word which will let them think I 
know anything about the true state of facts. 

The Court of Inquiry in Genl. Worth's case ad- 
journed this morning. Their opinion has not yet 
been published. With our mail of the 4th inst. went 
Genl. Scott's application to be relieved from the com- 
mand of this Army. As it is rumored that we are 
to receive large re-inforcements and a large remittance 
of money, the Genl. may think proper to suspend his 
application for the present. He has good cause of 
complaint. 

Tuesday, 29th. We tried the Belgian to-day. We 
meet again to-morrow morning but hope that we may 
not have to take up a new case. I omitted to mention 
the fate of the two, German and Mexican, tried before 
the first Council: the German was condemned to be 
shot, but Genl. Scott, on the recommendation of the 
majority of the Court, founded on a belief of the partial 
insanity of the man, remitted the sentence. The 
Mexican was acquitted. 

I have heard nothing more of the mail arrangement. 
'T is said that a large train will be sent to Vera Cruz 
soon after the arrival of Genl. Pillow. Rumor states 
to-day that the Mexican Congress is in session. I hope 
that this may be true, though I expected that a longer 
time would be necessary to reassemble them. 



232 An Artillery Officer 

Genl. S. told me that he had received very kind 
messages from Mr. and Mrs. Bankhead, the Br. Minis- 
ter and his wife. The Secy, of Legation seemed to 
feel, on the questions of our relations with Mexico, 
more like an American than an Englishman. Genl. 
S. also received a very kind and compHmentary letter 
from the Commander of the British fleet off Vera Cruz, 
and from a son of Sir Robert Peel, on board one of the 
vessels. The fact is, that when anything great and 
glorious is effected by our Arms, John Bull cannot 
help feeling that we are flesh of his flesh; jealousy, for 
the moment, is conquered by pride. 

We find here some Englishmen, but, as far as I know, 
they claim to be American citizens, having first stopped 
in the United States. The drummer boy is better — 
the Dr. thinks that he will recover. Good-night, 
good-night. May Angels watch and guard your sleep. 

Wednesday, June 30th. Nothing of interest to-day. 
The courier of the Br. Minister passed through to-day 
on his bi-weekly trip to Vera Cruz, but I did not hear 
of his having brought any news. The Council of War 
met, and no other case being presented, adjourned. 

To enable you to see me as I now live, I will give you 
a detail of one day's doings; here, we are little more 
than machines — one is a fair sample of all. Rising at 
reveille, I take my usual time and means for preparing 
for breakfast. As soon as I complete my toilette, 
about half -past six, I leave my room, and walk for half 
an hour till breakfast, which consists ordinarily of 
toast, coffee, and eggs (eighteen and three quarters or 
twenty-five cents per dozen), butter (one dollar per lb.), 
hogshead cheese (fifty cents per lb.), Bologna sausage 
(fifty cents per lb.), or soused pigs' feet are sometimes 



In Mexico 233 

added. The first three of the last articles — decided 
luxuries. 

For drills or other duties, I go out at nine o'clock, 
returning to dinner which is generally about one o'clock. 
It consists of soup, a small piece of salt or fresh meat, 
cabbage, rice or squash, and a salad of lettuce, tomatoes, 
and onions. I omitted to mention a bad habit I am 
contracting by order of my Dr., that of taking a toddy 
about eleven o'clock. 

After dinner, I take the Tactics, and generally awaken 
from a pleasant nap about three o'clock. Before 
throwing myself on my old camp bed, I usually eat 
a pear, peach, a few apricots, or a little of some of their 
numerous dulces. I have now some peaches, and what 
I think are crab-apples, prepared differently from any 
I ever saw with us; they are dry and well flavored; 
they seem to have been preserved and then dried. 

Afternoon drill takes place at four, but as this is 
Compy. or Squad drill, I have nothing to do vrith it. 
At five, Major Wade generally proposes a stroll, when 
we go through the market, and do what shopping our 
messing requires. We thus pass an hour or so, and 
return, taking coffee (tea) at candle-light. Our tea 
is frugal, a cup of coffee, toast, and a taste of hogshead 
cheese, sausage, and butter. I take a little milk after 
my coffee. I then retire to my room, and after a few 
moments, seat myself at my table to chat with you. 

This I continue until I think I have used as much 
space as can be spared for that day's letter, when I 
return my letter to my old trunk and sit down to the 
study, till bed time, of the only Milty. work I have, a 
treatise on La petite guerre, translated into French from 
the German of Decker ; or if I have found any Spanish 
proclamations, etc., I borrow a dictionary and read 



234 An Artillery Officer 

them, and then to bed, when I always say our evening 
prayers, and a special one for you and my return to 
you. Good-night. 

Thursday, July 1st. Reports somewhat important 
came to-day. One is that three Commissioners, Genl. 
Tomel, ex-Secy. War, at the head, were appointed to 
confer with Mr. Trist; another that the troops at 
Atlixco under Genl. Alvares and Canalize have dis- 
persed, broken up in a row in consequence of a quarrel 
between these Generals. 

Genl. Scott received this morning, a letter from Genl. 
Cadwalader stating that Genl. Pillow had not arrived 
at Perote on the 29th. Genl. C. writes that Genl. 
Pillow has about 1600 men with him, Infy. he thinks. 
As Genl. Pillow left Jalapa on the 25th he should have 
reached Perote on the day of Genl. Cadwalader's 
report. I cannot indulge sanguinely yet in the hope 
of peace being soon proclaimed. Were the idea once 
to take full possession of my soul, its failure of accom- 
plishment would be a very severe trial of all my philo- 
sophy. I will therefore try and await patiently the 
progress of the Negotiation, hoping tranquilly that it 
may lead to peace. 

Received this afternoon a visit from Capt. Danl. 
Ruggles, U. S. A., who requested information about the 
positions and deeds of "G" Co. during the siege of 
Vera Cruz : he told me that he was engaged on a History 
of the War, and that he intended being very particular 
and minute in the detail of the operations of the siege. 
I have copied for Adjt. Austine some incidents and 
dates from my note-book. His work will not be as 
valuable or interesting as Capt. De Hart's — if he writes 
one. Adjt. Austine has just left my room, having sat 



In Mexico 235 

pretty late with me, obtaining information for Capt. 
Ruggles. I will now retire, leaving a little comer for 
to-morrow's news. Good-night. 

July 2nd. Friend Kirby called to see me this fore- 
noon. I regret to hear that Mr. Trist is seriously sick, 
so much so, that he can attend to no business. This 
is very unfortunate, just at this time when he was 
about entering upon his delicate and important duties. 
Mr. T. has no funds, it appears, contrary to our expec- 
tation. Genl. S. has offered to place $250,000 in the 
City of Mexico, in twenty-four hours, subject to 
Mr. T.'s order. 

News comes from Mexico, that they learn by way of 
New Orleans that Genl. Scott has been ordered to sus- 
pend all further Military operations till the arrival of 
his successor. Can it be possible that Genl. Pillow is 
to be that successor, that the fate of our gallant Army, 
the honor of our Nation is to be taken from the safe 
guardianship of our great Genl. and intrusted to him 
or to any other untried man! I cannot believe it. 
The President may send Genl. Pillow (his neighbor, 
friend, and partner) as one of the Commissioners — that 
would be honor enough. I cannot think any higher 
can be intended. I must close No. 15 and let it wait 
for a mail, commencing No. 16 to-morrow. 

No. 16. PUEBLA. 

Saturday, July 3, 1847. 
Rank, sometimes, presents its possessor advantages 
the subordinates cannot secure. I feel this to-day in 
all its force. Genl. Worth availed himself of his 
position, in getting a letter or two taken by the 
British Courier to Vera Cruz; we knew nothing of 



236 An Artillery Officer 

the possibility of such a thing being done, till the 
day too late. Per contra, I hear that the opinion of 
the Court of Inquiry has been published at Division 
and Brigade Headquarters, and that it bears very 
heavily on Genl. Worth, censuring him for the conces- 
sions made to the City Authorities on our entry here, 
inasmuch as some of the provisions were in contradic- 
tion of, and actually repealed, Genl. Scott's order, and 
also finding him at fault in issuing his anti-poison 
Circular. 

I reported to the Genl. this morning as Div. Officer 
of the Day, but did not take a seat, as I was afraid he 
might allude to the subject. I would rather not con- 
verse at all about the matters of investigation, at all 
events, I would prefer postponing it imtil the rough 
edge has well worn down. 

Some Mexicans report that there is great commotion 
and trouble in the City of Mexico; but, whether it 
be favorable or unfavorable in its results to the cause 
of peace, we must wait a day or two before we can 
learn. 

The newsboys are now crying through town a sheet 
containing (i) the letter of the Mexican Secy, of 
Foreign Affairs, transmitting it to the Secretaries of 
Congress; (2) Mr. Secretary Buchanan's letter inform- 
ing the Mexican Govt, of the appointment of Mr. Trist 
as Commissioner with full powers to conclude a treaty 
of peace ; and also (3) the Mexican Secretary's letter to 
Mr. Buchanan, acknowledging the receipt of his letter. 

As the American newspapers will have these letters 
at least as soon as you receive this, it will be useless 
for me to give even a synopsis of their contents. Mr. 
Buchanan's letter, the first part of it particularly, is 
written in good temper and with ability ; the Mexican 



i 



In Mexico 237 

letters evince no bad feeling. The affair, upon the 
whole, I think bears a favorable aspect. I have not 
heard to-day from Mr. Trist. The mail is expected to- 
morrow. 

I hear that the troops may be here on Monday — 
which we keep as the 4th. A National Salute to be 
fired at twelve, all the troops being under arms, and 
at eight P.M. a rocket to be thrown up for each of our 
States. Query: Will they give us rockets for each of 
the Mexican States we have annexed? 

The sentence of our "Council of War" has been 
published — the Belgian is to be imprisoned in the 
Castle of Perote, during the continuance of the war 
between the United States and Mexico, to pay to the 
treasury of the United States $300, not being released 
till this fine be paid. So that you see the result of 
OUT deliberations places no spot of blood on my soul. 
Our friend is throwing himself to the dogs as fast as he 
can. I have spoken to him, but 't is useless — my taking 
him to task would lose me his friendship, and result in 
no good. I deeply, most deeply, regret it; there is 
nothing I would not do to stop him in his downhill 
career. 

Simday, July 4th. The anniversary of our glorious 
independence. Many, very many years must pass 
before the common people, the public of this miscalled 
Republic, will be sufficiently enlightened to enjoy the 
blessings of independence. Unfortunately, all attempts 
to better their condition, instead of being nursed into 
activity in the schoolhouse, and rendered effective at 
the polls, are christened by the bloody sword. 

This day is not unimportant in my little history, 
as, six months ago, I crossed the bar leading from Tampa 



238 An Artillery Officer 

Bay, our last happy home. Will Echo tell whether the 
expiration of another six will find us united? God 
grant that the action of the Mexican Congress may be 
of such character as to bring peace among its other 
blessings. 

The day has passed off pretty well, at least I have 
heard of no casualties among our soldiers. The news 
from Vera Cruz this morning is highly important — as 
we heard of the landing there of Maj. Genl. F. Pierce, 
with 2000 men, and that he is to be followed by 6000 
more. These additions to our forces will give us a 
respectable Army, such as we should have had to 
commence our march into the interior — not large 
enough, however, if the Mexican Congress should 
decline our offer of peace. We must, in that 
unfortunate event, act with most decided energy, and 
exercise all our skill. 

I have not seen Genl. Scott since the receipt of this 
news, which I learned this morning from Genl. Worth. 
I would go to see him this evening, were it not both 
damp and chilly. To-night, I must also make up for 
the last night's loss of sleep. 

Genl. W. stated that he heard Mr. Trist's situation 
was more than critical. No news from the Capital 
to-day, and worst of all, no mail in. Would it not be 
too bad if the arrival of Genl. Pierce should still 
longer delay Genl. Cadwalader! I will still, though 
it would seem hoping against hope, try and hope to- 
morrow will bring letters from you. Good-night. 

Tuesday, July 6th. A slight chill succeeded by some 
fever kept me in bed all day yesterday, and prevented 
my writing to you last night. A letter was received 
yesterday from Vera Cruz informing us that Genl. 



In Mexico 239 

Pierce was encamped near there with 2500 men, that 
he would march in a day or two. My friend Maj. 
Gait comes with him. Rumor says that the bands of 
guerrillas along the road have fallen out with their 
chiefs, whom they want to hang, and that their quarrels 
will probably disperse them. 

From Mexico, we have no news. A day or two 
should give us important items as Congress may be 
now in session, and their decision in answer to the 
application of our Govt, will probably be made very 
soon after their meeting. The news of the landing of 
Genl. P. and of the expected arrival of other troops 
may quicken their deliberations. 

'T is a pity that so many of our countrymen have 
passed through Vera Cruz and the imhealthy region 
thence to Jalapa at this season; I fear that we shall 
lose many of the men. Although I have had no chill 
or fever to-day, yet having been up nearly all day, I 
feel a little weakened by yesterday's attack, and 
think I had better retire early. I will then wish you 
good-night, praying God to guard and guide you. 

Wednesday, 7th. This, which I expected would be 
my sick day, has passed without my having had a 
return of my chill, so that I hope that I may con- 
sider myself well. My friends have been very kind. 
Capt. R. Lee called yesterday, and to-day my old 
friends, Maj. Irwin, Col. Smith, Maj. Tumbull, Dr. 
Lawson, etc. — have all, with others, called to see 
how I was. Dr. Tripler, who does not belong to 
our Division, happened to call the day I was taken 
sick, and as our Dr. was not then in, I asked Dr. T. 
to prescribe for me, and thus became his patient; he 
has been very attentive. I hope I may have an 



240 An Artillery Officer 

opportunity of shewing my friends that I never forget 
kindnesses. 

Genl. Pillow is in the City with the mail, which will 
be delivered early in the morning, when we shall have 
a new Commander, an old acquaintance, Capt. Martin 
Burke. 

Our present Commander is too mild, and his kind- 
ness and forbearance are imposed upon by the young 
officers. The Capt. will, I think, keep a little tighter 
rein. 

From Mexico, we have news; it is surmised that the 
true original peace party wish to prevent Santa Anna 
from having anything to do with making the treaty. 
They hope that some event may occur which will put 
him down. He is now having the Army under his 
influence, and holding the strong places in and near the 
City, too powerful for them. His friends are resolved 
not to have the ballot-boxes opened until September or 
the new President inaugurated until December, until 
which time they intend he shall have the power in 
his own hands. If they fail in their designs, Santa 
Anna's fall will be certain and perhaps terminate 
fatally for him, as he has many very bitter enemies. 
A few days may unravel these new knotty points. 

Mr. Trist called to see Genl. Scott yesterday; his 
case is considered critical, as he has some affection of 
the lungs, and this climate is decidedly unfavorable to 
all persons with weak lungs. 

Derr has just come in to tell me that McDonough 
has come. I am rejoiced to see him (he has just left 
me) as he was left sick, and I was afraid that he would 
never join us again. You do not know how attentive 
and kind Derr was to me in my little sickness — had I 
been his own son his manner could not have been 



In Mexico 241 

kinder. He was very highly flattered with the messages 
in your last letter. I cannot write any more till I 
receive your letters. God grant that they bring me 
good news from you. Good-night. 

Thursday morning, 8th. A thousand, thousand 
thanks to God, and blessings on you for your letters of 
the 7th, nth, and 21st May. I regret to hear of the 
severe attack of poor Grandmother. I only took up 
my pen to make my early acknowledgments of your 
letters. 

The troops arrived this morning, so that now we 
have our new Commander. Lt. Thomas, who returned 
sick from Tepeyahualco to Jalapa, also came up ; he is 
looking pretty well but has not recovered his strength. 
Maj. Buchanan is with Genl. Pillow; whether he will 
rem.ain with him as A.D.C. or rejoin his Regt., I do 
not think he has yet determined. Col. Andrews of the 
Voltigeurs is here. Four Compys. of Lt. Col. W. W. 
Graham's Regt. also arrived. I had a good opportu- 
nity, two days since, of speaking to my old friend, 
and could not avoid making a last attempt. I fear it 
will do no good. 

I am very anxious to hear from you again, as I feel 
very great anxiety about Father, who was, when you 
wrote, I fear, far from being well. Poor old grandmother, 
from so many and such violent attacks, so rapidly 
succeeding, will not, I fear, last much longer. 

You ask my opinion about your paying my family 
a visit. I wish exceedingly that you would do so. 
But you will hardly be able to do it now, as, long before 
this letter reaches you (indeed it is perhaps at this 
moment too late), Maj. Sanders will have returned. 
He was as good a person as you could have seen to 



242 An Artillery Officer 

make you understand all about the positions of the 
batteries, etc., at Vera Cruz. I do not doubt that if 
he returned to Savannah in the boat with you, that his 
conversation interested Father very much. I hope he 
did so for your sake, as your agitation, you state, 
prevented your understanding much of his first con- 
versation. He might have made everything more 
intelligible by a little sketch. 

From what Genl. Pillow told me to-day, I think it 
is probable that Duncan's Regt. may be ordered here. 
I shall most joyfully welcome him though I am still 
sorry that he chose the profession of arms. He might 
have done much better. But we must now stimulate 
him to render himself accomplished and distinguished 
as a soldier. 

I heard to-day, confidentially, that Genl. Scott had 
not received any order from the President compli- 
mentary to the troops and himself, but that the 
Secretary had written a very severe letter. How 
dare he address in terms other than courteous and 
approbatory (and what is his approbation in such a 
case) a man so far his superior in every respect! I 
hope that there is some mistake in this matter ; if so I 
will gladly make the amende honorable, for I have always 
had a regard for the Secretary. Enough for one night. 

Friday, 9th. Feeling a little chilly this evening, in 
consequence of a change of weather, I shall not write 
much. In speaking of this place, I have not mentioned 
that these changes are not uncommon. The wind 
shifting round to the W. and SW. brings chills on its 
wings from the eternal snows which cover the tops of 
Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl, which are plainly in 
sight in that direction. 





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In Mexico 243 

The snow-capped mountains are visible from this 
place — the two above mentioned — and in the distance, 
towards the East, lies our old friend Orizaba, whose 
familiar outline is plainly visible at an early hour of a 
cloudless morning. As we stand on our drill ground, 
we see at the left of Popocatepetl, the renowned pyramid 
of Cholula, where a Catholic Chapel now stands, on 
the spot where, probably, the Indians had their temples 
in which thousands of human beings were sacrificed. 

Cholula was, in the days of Cortez, a magnificent 
city; not a trace of the ancient city now remains. 
You there find ruins of a large Spanish City, built since 
the destruction of that of the Indians. 

In the old Cholula, Cortez, in consequence of dis- 
covering a plot to cut his army to pieces, inflicted most 
exemplary and savage punishment on its poor inhabi- 
tants. In their temples they had large cages full of 
men and women whom they were fattening to sacrifice 
or to eat. The ruins of the renowned City of Tlascala 
lie to the right of our road to Mexico. I should like 
very much to visit both these cities, but fear that I 
shall not be able to do so. 

Rumor states that Genl. Santa Anna has ordered all 
the troops and all the arms to the City of Mexico — 
he may fear a pronunciamiento {a declaration against 
him, preceding a revolutionary movement), and is perhaps 
preparing to put it down by the strong arm of power. 

I have been engaged all day in preparing my quarterly 
papers for the functionaries at Washington, but when 
or how will they go? Had I not been thus busily 
engaged, I would have called to see the Genl. 'Tis 
too bad, he did not receive a line from his family. It 
will distress me, knowing this, to meet him. 

Rain, rain, rain — this is indeed the rainy seasoru 



k 



244 An Artillery Officer 

It is now raining for the third spell within the last 
twenty-four hours. I feel so uncomfortable (you 
know our rooms have no glass windows, with their 
conveniences and comforts) that I must retire. 

Sunday, nth. As I was a little apprehensive, when 
the above was written, I had last night a regular chill, 
and remained in bed all day yesterday, having taken 
twenty grains of quinine in the morning. To-day I 
have been up since about eight o'clock, taking two 
grain pills every two hours, and feel so well now that 
I hope I may have no return of the chill. 

I heard to-day through Dr. Cuyler of your having 
passed through Savannah. Mrs. Locke was kind 
enough to send me word that she had seen you and that 
you were looking well. The Dr. also said that you had 
passed through Charleston. I hope to receive at least 
one letter from you, by the train which accompanies 
Genl. Pierce. 

For the past two days the City has been filled with 
rumors from Mexico. I have not been well enough 
to go to Genl. Hd. Qrs., where I will learn the truth. 
The general impression, however, is, that we are to 
have a fight, and a very severe one. 

Some think, that on our approach, Santa Anna's 
enemies will compel him to come to terms, or others 
think that they will take advantage of our presence to 
attempt to remove him from his usurped office. So 
strangely do these people act, that I pretend to form 
no idea of what they will do. Half of the time they 
leave undone things they ought to have done. Certain 
it is that messengers have arrived from Mexico, yester- 
day and the day before. 

The Mexican Congress have not yet succeeded in 



In Mexico 245 

getting a quorum. I will not commence another page 
to-night, but close by a good-night — good-night. 

Monday, 12th. A most unwelcome visitor this morn- 
ing, in a threatened chill. Dr. Tripler happened to be 
sitting by me, and checked it by giving me quinine 
and making me take a pretty good grog of "Catalan," 
being well covered in bed. As it was not succeeded by 
fever, I shall not count it a chill. 

Dr. Cuyler was kind enough to send me the latest 
Savannah Georgian. In that of the 28th of May, I 
see the arrival on the 27th of Mrs. Anderson, and maid, 
and the rest of your family party. This relieves my 
apprehensions about Father's health, which might not, 
I feared, permit of his going on in that trip of the boat. 
I put down your arrival in Clarkesville about the ist 
of June, and feel certain that Genl. Pierce will bring 
me a letter from you dated at Clarkesville. 

Capt. Johnson Lee started with a flag of truce for the 
City of Mexico this morning; what his mission is, I 
know not ; some say that he bears a message relative 
to the prisoners now in that City, viz., Maj. Gaines 
and his party. No organization has yet taken place of 
their Congress. 

To-morrow, our Brigade goes back, probably as far 
as Nopolucan, on a foraging expedition, it is said. This 
attack of chills keeps me here, as the Dr. will not 
permit me to go. Were the march towards Mexico, I 
would regret separation from the Command very much, 
but as they go over the beaten ground, and when they 
will only see a few guerrillas, who will avoid them, I 
do not care very much about it. They will be absent 
five days, and will probably return about the time 
Genl. Pierce comes up. 



246 An Artillery Officer 

The impression gains ground daily that we shall 
advance very soon after we receive the augmentation 
of our force. We may find near Mexico about twenty 
thousand men — we shall have about half that number. 
Lieut. Johnston is now busy hanging up his pictures 
(Catholic) in my room preparatory to his going in the 
morning, so I will bid good-night. 

Tuesday, 13th. No chill to-day, and feeling pretty 
well to-night; if I escape to-morrow night, I shall 
again hope it is broken. The Command left this morn- 
ing under Capt. Burke, Col. Garland commanding 
the Brigade. I fear that they had an unpleasant 
afternoon, as we had a very heavy rain about three 
o'clock. I called this morning to see Genl. Scott, but 
as he was engaged with Mr. Trist, I did not go to his 
room, but sat a few moments with his Staff. Genl. 
Scott reviews our Army on the 15th, 17th, and 19th 
inst. and report says that we are to leave on the 21st. 
Hardly as soon, I think. 

Genl. Scott has so entirely won the confidence of 
the Army by the prudence and bravery which com- 
bine so beautifully in his character, that they, like 
myself, will, when he orders us to advance, determine 
at once that 't is the time to do so. That he is well 
informed of every measure of any importance I am 
confident, and he will not order an advance until he 
is well assured that it is necessary and important for 
us to do so. Never were the interests of a country 
in the keeping of a safer chief. 

There are some reasons, and of importance too, why 
we should remain here till the rainy season is over, 
and all these the Genl. well knows, and has deliberately 
weighed. We shall have a very fatiguing march, and 



In Mexico 247 

one atttended with great suffering and succeeded by a 
great deal of sickness. 

We have not heard what Division will take the lead. 
Genl. Twiggs pretends to be very desirous of leading — 
saying that it is his turn as we were in the advance from 
Jalapa — but here no one expected to meet with resist- 
ance. But why speculate upon a question the decision 
of which will in all probability be given either in this 
or a letter you will receive by the same mail? I am 
sorry that Capt. Saunders did not go to Savannah on 
the boat with you as I fear you did not see him but 
once. Good-night, etc. 

Wednesday, July 14th. I passed the night and this 
day very comfortably, no chill. This morning I called 
to see Genl. Scott, and found him so busily engaged 
writing that I did not sit down; he was very affec- 
tionate. Capt. Lee did not go with a flag of truce to 
Mexico, "escorted by two Compys. of Dragoons." 
Capt. Kearney, with his Compy., went as an escort 
to a flag of truce borne by Capt. Symmes, U.S. Navy. 
He returned this evening ; with what news I will report 
to-morrow evening. Finding that I have been so 
grossly deceived in the report, so positively asserted by 
many, of Capt. Lee's mission to the City, I will be a 
little more cautious in crediting camp stories than I 
have been. 

I find that preparations are making in the different 
staff corps of the Army for an advance, which all seem 
to think will be made in this month. I am exceedingly 
desirous of hearing what report Capt. Kearney makes of 
the state of the roads. I fear that we shall find them 
very heavy, or at all events they will be rendered so 
before one half of our long train passes over them. 



248 An Artillery Officer 

I hear that a private express is about starting for 
Vera Cruz. I will enquire to-morrow about the pro- 
babilities in favor of, and against its reaching that 
place, and if the chances are favorable, I will despatch 
one or more of the volumes on hand. No one, who 
has not been situated similarly to ourselves, can 
conceive of the blessings they enjoy in the liixury of 
regular daily, or even weekly mails. I hope that I 
may never again be placed out of hearing of the "Post- 
boy's horn." 

On meeting an officer of the 2nd Arty, to-day, I 
learn that many of their officers were as unfortunate 
as myself in being left by their Regt. in consequence 
of indisposition. Among the number I regret naming 
Capt. De Hart and Cousin Samuel ; the former has been 
ill, the latter too unwell to accompany his Regt., but 
not confined seriously. I have not mentioned poor 
Saffern the drummer boy's case for several days ; he is 
slowly recovering. 

Lt. Judd is more of an invalid than any of the officers 
of your acquaintance. He has been unwell for several 
weeks and now looks very badly — I fear that he will be 
an invalid for several weeks. He appears to have one 
of those lingering, undecided kinds of fever, a species 
of typhoid. Capt. Wall of the 3rd is severely afflicted 
with an ugly cough, which may lead to something 
worse. When we reach Mexico we shall have time to 
recruit — the climate will prove more congenial to us, I 
hope, than that of this place. 

I have not told you that Derr is now my cook; he 
is highly delighted at every meal by the praises I be- 
stow on his skill. The fact is, he looks to me for 
instruction, and I am not entirely disinterested in the 
bestowal of encomiums on our cooking. 



In Mexico 249 

Thursday, 15th. I saw the Genl. this morning, 
returning from the review of the 2nd Twiggs Division. 
He looked remarkably well. In consequence of the 
absence of our Brigadier, the review of the ist Division 
will take place on Monday; the Division of Vols., 
Genl. Pillow, will be on the 17th. 

Capt. Kearney went as far as Rio Frio, twelve 
leagues (say thirty miles) from Mexico. He then 
overtook (having dispatched an Indian after him to 
check his progress) Genl. Canalize, who was hastening, 
with about seventy Dragoons, towards Mexico, to 
announce, undoubtedly, the approach of the whole 
American Army. Genl. Canalizo received the General's 
despatches, and would not allow either of our Officers 
to convey them to the City. Capt. Kearney, I learn, 
reports that the road is not in a bad state, and that there 
are no obstructions on it. 

The Mexican Congress is reported to be in session — 
a quorum having been finally obtained. We may soon 
learn their determination. God grant that it may 
be pacific — though I fear that it will not be. If they 
reject our overtures I think that we shall advance upon, 
and probably, after a bloody struggle, take the City, 
there to remain till fall, or for further advices and 
reinforcements from the United States. 

This being the great market day, I walked through 
the City this morning, and find a few changes since I 
last mentioned visiting it. The peaches and pears are 
much improved, some of them are quite good — there 
is a very large pear, very juicy, which I never saw in 
the United States and which I shall attempt to intro- 
duce. The seed of a large snowy white onion I wish 
also to procure. Pineapples and oranges were more 
abundant to-day than they have been for some weeks. 



250 An Artillery Officer 

Of the infinite variety of beans, I have already secured 
several. 

I experimented to-day by putting some of the 
young leaves of one of the varieties of the cactus in 
my soup ; it is a tolerably good substitute for the ochre. 
There were some fine large citron, and a few figs in 
market, the first I have seen. Green corn has occasion- 
ally been seen for the past three weeks, it is small with 
black grains. Snap beans and green peas I must not 
omit, nor squashes, etc. 

Of their curiosities, I have not mentioned, I think, 
one among the horse-trappings; it is a piece of heavy 
leather running back from the saddle, and fitting the 
form of the horse hangs about half way down his 
thighs ; the lower part is cut into seven strips, the ends 
of which are ornamented with chains, or pieces of iron ; 
the whole surface of the leather is pressed or stamped 
and variously ornamented. 

The Spanish carriage is a very heav>" thing hung by 
strong leather straps, which pass over heavy wooden 
braces, about two feet above the axletrees; the fore 
wheels about one third as large as the hind ones — they 
are drawn by two mules in the City, but when travel- 
ling you sometimes see three or four hitched abreast 
before the two "wheel-mules" and again two more in 
the lead. Each set of mules has generally its driver; 
the traces are generally rope made of twisted raw hide. 

As I am describing, I must not forget an "Arriero" 
who serenades us twice a week with his drove of mules, 
each of which has around its neck one large and two 
smaller- sized bells, giving the most discordant sounds 
bells ever gave. 

These men are the greatest packers in the world — 
these poor animals look like pigmies under the immense 



In Mexico 251 

loads they bear. The common Mexican is nearly the 
equal, however, of his patient ass, as he carries weights 
we would never dream of placing on the backs of our 
slaves. Their mode of carrying burthens I described 
in a letter from Tampico, — a strap over the forehead ; 
the women place the strap over the upper part of the 
chest. 

Saturday, 17th. Last night I'dined with Col. Butler, 
S.C., and returned at so late an hour that I did not 
think it prudent to sit up later. When I received an 
invitation in the morning, I thought it was to make 
one of a little party, which would separate at an early 
hour, or I would have taken my evening's chat with you 
before going, and was very much surprised to find a 
long table arranged for a regular dinner party. Genl. 
Scott was invited, but did not attend. 

Among my friends at the table I mention Maj. 
Smith, Engineers, Dr. Lawson, Capts. Irwin and Huger, 
Capts. Screven and Myers. We had a very pleasant 
party, having a respectable sitting of five hours — eating 
and drinking was interspersed with songs and toasts. 
Genl. Clinch was enthusiastically toasted, also Genl. 
Scott. The evening passed as pleasantly as it could 
with those who were far from wife, children, and home. 
The supper or dinner was a plain one — turkeys, chickens, 
ham, rice, com bread, chicken salad, sardines, fruit, 
pie, oranges, peanuts, cacahuate, sherry and claret 
wines, with a bottle of brandy, and I believe I have 
named the articles on the table. But as we have been 
sufficiently long at the table, let us leave it, and come 
to the details of to-day. 

By appointment of last night, I breakfasted with Lt. 
Col. Dickerson, S. C, and about eight o'clock started 



25^ An Artillery Officer 

with a party of S. C. Officers for Cholula. After a ride 
of about one hour and a half, as pleasant as a ride on a 
sorry scrub of a horse pennitted, we rode to the top of 
the celebrated pyramid of Cholula. 

Humboldt (according to Thompson) states the base 
of this pyramid to be 1440 feet (square), its height 177 
feet, and the area of the top to be 45,210 square feet. 
You see distinctly the separations of the strata of the 
large earthen calves (sunburnt bricks, Thompson calls 
them) of which it was built, and find in them an infinite 
number of pieces of broken earthen ware. 

Grotesque, rudely fonned stone images are found in 
the plain; some of them I wall try to procure to take 
home. The view of the church, which crowns the 
pyramid, as you approach it, at about the distance of a 
mile from it, is very fine ; on the left you see the snow- 
covered peak of the highest mountain in Mexico, 
Popocatepetl, and the background to the church and 
pyramid is the mountain of Iztaccihuatl. 

The view from the top of this church is exceedingly 
beautiful — on every side extends a very rich plain, 
regularly laid out in fields now under cultivation in 
corn, which is in various stages, from the tender stock 
to that now in roasting ears ; the eye tracing through the 
plain the meandering course of a small river rimning 
between us and Puebla; whilst in the distance, on one 
side you see the lofty steeples of the Cathedral of 
Puebla, the Church of Guadalupe, the hill beyond it 
like a watch tower, and a little to the right rises 
Alalinche, where stood the Capital of the Republic of 
Tlascala, which, Cortes says, contained five hundred 
thousand freeholders. 

Smaller and nameless (as far as I know) mountains 
form the limits to your view in other directions, till 



U^^ V 















",)!-%.> Jit' 



■ f i 




I 






!l - ^' ^ 






^or 



In Mexico 253 

you cast your eyes towards the snowy moimtains 
above mentioned, where around the base of the pyramid 
on that side stand the immense ruins of the large 
City of Cholula built by the Spaniards. Among the 
huge walls still standing, you see several churches, some 
now open for worship, others closed. The City covered 
more ground than Puebla now does. 

The present City of Cholula is close to the base of 
the pyramid, and is not seen till you rise the hill formed 
by the cutting of the road through the base of the 
pyramid. Beyond the ruins, and much nearer than the 
mountains, projects a volcanic mountain, the crater 
of which is distinctly marked. 

Would that I could give you such a description as 
would present these views plainly to your mind's eye — 
you would be delighted — but I cannot. The pyramid 
is ascended by a good road which winds along two sides 
of its faces, to the top ; the sides are now closely covered 
with bushes and small shrubs. 

I brought two specimens of Indian embroidery 
from the Chiu-ch of the Pyramid — rude enough, but 
they will be interesting as being made there by an 
Indian woman. 

On my retiun I found Capt. Burke in Barracks with 
his Command. By the bye, Maj. Harvey Brown, who 
commanded the Escort (4th Arty.), to-day requested 
to be particularly remembered to Mrs. Clinch, your 
father, and yourself. 

News to-day from Mexico is of great importance. 
Genl. Santa Anna's Govt, is pursuing vigorous measures 
towards some of his Generals. Genl. Ampudia has 
been sent under an escort to Cuemavaca; Genl. Al- 
monte has been ordered to march to Tulancingo in 
twenty-foiu" hours, and has been refused the assistance 



254 An Artillery Officer 

necessary for the journey, and Genl. Avista has been 
violently carried to the fortress of Acapulco. Enough 
for to-night. Good-night. 

Sunday, i8th. No news to-day — but a rumor that 
Genl. Pierce left, or was to have left Vera Cruz on 
last Wednesday. Mr. Hargous, an American merchant, 
who has been residing several years in this country, 
offers to bet any amount of money that peace will be 
proclaimed in two months. I wish, in this case, that 
my losing a few hundred dollars would secure that 
result, and I would most willingly lose a year's pay to 
secure so great a gain. What Mr. Hargous founds 
his hopes upon, I know not, but I fear that he is too 
sanguine. 

Among the sights of yesterday, I did not include the 
Mexican ploughman. The plough is a simple block, 
shod with iron, terminating in a point, having a single 
handle which the man holds with his right hand, his 
left hand guiding and urging his two oxen by means of 
a goad, a long reed, having an iron spike four or five 
inches long on its small end. I also saw a party of 
Mexicans spading up some ground; the spade is made 
of wood, the blade having merely a border of iron. 
Everything here is of fashions centuries old. The mules 
are generally hitched, or rather harnessed to the carts 
as our oxen are, supporting the weight of the tongue by 
means of a bar and collars or bows. 

I went this morning to see some of my sick friends. 
I found Lt. Anderson quite indisposed, several others 
of the 2nd Arty, are more or less unwell. Capt. De Hart 
has been taken to the house occupied by Genl. Worth — 
he will there be closely and well attended by Dr. Satter- 
lee. 



I 



In Mexico 255 

I have not mentioned my own health, it is because I 
have had no more chills to report ; to-morrow morning, 
will be seven days since my last attempt to have one; 
if I escape it then, I shall feel pretty safe. I have a 
grand appetite, and am ready to eat my allowance at 
every meal, but I must restrain, as I am convinced that 
we do not require here as much food as is necessary in 
colder climates. I met the two Doctors Steiner day 
before yesterday — the older has been very ill, but 
is now convalescing; they came up with Genl. Pillow's 
Command. 

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of Dr. Suter's company 
on my return from Cholula. He is very well; his 
last letters from Mrs. Suter were from Washington, 
where she was with his father's family — the Doctor's 
son, Charley, had consented to go with her. I did not 
ask the Dr. but presume that she is on her way to her 
mother's. 

Howard has just told me that an express expected to 
start in a short time for Vera Cruz, so that I will write 
a short note — they take none others — to-morrow, merely 
to tell you that I am well. My regular series I will 
retain till I find a sure and safe conveyance. You 
would have (could I now send what I have written) 
enough reading for a month, as I find I cannot follow 
the rule I prescribed for myself, of writing a jew lines 
every night. I will, at all events, close for this night, 
praying that God may continue the guard and guide 
of my wife. Good-night. 

Monday, 19th. I wrote a note to you very hastily 
this morning, to take its chance by an express, when 
one goes. Under the fear, I may say expectation, of 
its being intercepted by the Mexicans, it was filled with 



256 An Artillery Officer 

commonplace expressions. I am unwilling that they 
should read in it anything they could laugh and jeer 
over. This writing to you, every night, ruins my style 
as an ordinary letter writer, for now I make no attempt 
at condensation, writing whatever occurs to me, and 
not digesting the sentences. To a wife, this is perhaps 
excusable, but not so with any one else. 

Genl. Scott reviewed our Division to-day — I did not 
attend, because this being the seventh day since my 
chill, I was advised by the Dr. not to go out. As I 
anticipated, the Division did not make as fine a dis- 
play as Genl. Twiggs's did. Our Genl. has not had 
us in the field as frequently as he ought. 

Two rumors from Mexico to-day — one that they are 
fighting in the City, where a pronunciamiento has been 
made against Santa Anna, and the other that the 
Congress has adjourned, having given Santa Anna 
power to make a treaty. A day or two will enlighten 
us as to the credibility either report is entitled to. 

I may mention, though, that we are endeavoring to 
organize a monthly express to Vera Cruz, the men to 
take a certain number of letters, each written on half 
a sheet of fine paper. As soon as the arrangement is 
made, I shall, without discontinuing this series, com- 
mence a new one. I fear that in my attempt to get a 
great deal on my half sheet, I may compel you to put 
spectacles on, to decipher my writing. 

I called to see Dr. Harney this morning, and was 
pleased to see him looking well. His slight wound 
gives him some trouble, and will do so for a long time ; 
the ball struck one of the bones just above the ankle 
joint. His general health appears to be perfectly 
restored. He advises me to take a pill of quinine daily ; 
I followed his advice to-day, and it has passed without 



In Mexico 257 

a chill. Mr. Judd still looks badly, but slowly improves, 
I think. The drummer boy is nearly well. 

Tuesday, 20th, after tattoo. I have just sent to Genl. 
Worth's Hd. Qrs. another letter to take its chance by 
an express, which starts to-night. Good luck attend 
our messenger; we know that the chances are against 
us, but still, should only one in twenty reach you, I 
shall be richly repaid by learning that you have again 
heard from me. Regarding that letter as part of my 
evening's talk with you, I shall say but a few words more. 

Report tells to-day, that Santa Anna has appointed 
Commissioners — Nous verrons. The Q. M. has at last 
furnished me with a horse; he is very showy, but too 
high-spirited for an Officer whose duties at drill take 
him among the soldiers. I shall have to exchange him 
for another. I called at Genl. Scott's Quarters to see 
Capt. De Hart; he is there, instead of being at Genl. 
Worth's; he looks very badly, but is convalescent. 
Good-night, and happy dreams to you. 

Wednesday, 21st. Thus far, no chill. To-day I 
have accomplished a duty to which I should have 
attended some days ago, that of making some calls on 
my brother Kentuckians — Capt. Pope, Rifles, was the 
only one at home. He was formerly a lawyer of 
Louisville, who found it more agreeable to spend his 
time pleasantly with his friends than to attend to the 
dry business of the Court rooms, and consequently his 
clients looked elsewhere for a business man. 

Captain is, I am sorry to say it, under arrest, 

and will be arraigned for trial to-morrow morning, 
charged with indulging too freely and frequently in 
the social glass, and in some instances when on duty. 



258 An Artillery Officer 

I fear that his case is a very bad one. I will attend his 
trial for the sake of his father, whom I esteem most 
dearly. His counsel is Lt. Col. Tom Moore, 2nd 
Dragoons. 

I called on Col. Andrews of the Voltigeurs; he is, I 
fancy, sorry that he left his comfortable berth in Wash- 
ington for this service. In his Regt. there is one 
Kentucky Capt. whose family I know, and I think 
that I know him, Capt. Churchill; he was on drill. 
I then called on Col. Butler, and some other South 
Carolina Vols. Thus, you see that I have accomplished 
a good deal. 

Every person is on the qui vive this afternoon, as 
it is expected, with what reason I do not hear, that we 
either move in two days, or not until the fall. Capt. 
R. Lee, Engineers, expressed his fears last evening that 
he would not have an opportunity of visiting the City 
of Mexico. He is no idle prattler, and speaks not 
without reflection. 

No. 17. PuEBLA, Mexico. 

Thursday, July 22, '47. 

I went to the Court room this morning, and was 
very much pleased to learn that Genl. Scott had per- 
mitted the charges against Capt. to be with- 
drawn. I hope the clemency now shewn him may 
not be without good results. 

A flag came to Genl. Scott this morning, from Mexico, 
in answer to his application, or demand, for the return 
of certain prisoners. The Genl. told me that the an- 
swer was favorable, that it is written in good temper. 

I had a long talk with friend Kirby this morning — 
he thinks that chances are decidedly in favor of peace, 
that they are nearly equal to nine out of ten against 



In Mexico 259 

it. He is not apt to jump to strange or wrong conclu- 
sions ; he is indeed very cautious, usually, in the expres- 
sion of his opinion, and, knowing from the Genl. 
himself that the data on which the Major formed his 
opinion were obtained from the Genl., this opinion has 
great weight with me. But still I cannot indulge the 
delightful hope of peace, even when presented from such 
a source. I can place no confidence in the doings of 
this Govt, or of their constituted authorities. 

To one opinion of the Major's I do fully consent, 
which is that if the Mexicans do not now consent to, 
and conclude, a treaty of peace, that the war must 
continue for a long and indefinite period. We cannot 
again offer the olive branch. Two rude rejections 
will bar us from making another. 

Certain it is, that, as yet, neither Congress nor Santa 
Anna have answered Mr. Trist's letter. The officer 
who bore the flag embraced one of the General's aids, 
drank to peace, and called him his "friend." All 
this may well be diplomatique. 

We must soon advance, if the Govt, comes to no 
decision or to an unfavorable one on Secy. Buchanan's 
proposal, submitted through Mr. Trist, proposing that 
Commissioners be appointed to confer with Mr. T. 
on the terms of a treaty. To-morrow, or the next 
day, we may hear something interesting from the 
City. No news of Genl. Pierce's march. Good-night. 

Friday, 23rd. Genl. S. told me confidentially, to- 
day, that there was a slight prospect of the opening of 
negotiations with the Mexican Govt. The facts are 
these. Genl. S. A., as you know, sent Mr. Buchanan's 
letter to Congress; this body resolved to play a game 
of shuttlecock with the President: returned it to him 



260 An Artillery Officer 

stating that, by the Constitution, the initiatory steps 
in the consideration of treaties were assigned to the 
Executive. 

Genl. Santa Anna's rejoinder has been received, in 
which he informs the Congress that he does not require 
any instructions from them in relation to his duties, 
that he did not send the letter to them for any further 
action on their part than for them to rescind the re- 
solution passed at the close of their last Session, declar- 
ing any Mexican a traitor to his country who would 
listen to, or receive any proposals of peace; that he 
knows by the Constitution of 1824 this duty was im- 
posed on the Executive. He tells them that the ques- 
tion now presented for the consideration of the Mexicans 
should be solemnly and wisely deliberated upon, and 
that it should be answered either affirmatively or 
negatively. It is said to be the best paper he has 
issued. 

Some of the Members of Congress, alarmed probably 
at the dilemma in which they have placed themselves, 
have left the City. Santa Anna is preparing, in the 
event of Congress* adjourning without rescinding 
their unconstitutional resolution, to have a pronun- 
ciamiento declaring himself Dictator. The Army is 
not yet ready for this; but it is thought that he will, 
soon, as he has placed Congress so decidedly in the 
wrong, seize the supreme power. A few days more 
and all these schemes must work out results either 
favorable to, or destructive of Santa Anna, Genl. 
Santa Anna's order of the 19th inst. was received here 
to-day. He orders that the firing of a cannon in the 
place d'armes will be the signal of the approach of the 
troops, that at this all the bands shall play, and that 
all the military shall retire to their Quarters, and there 



In Mexico 261 

await instructions; no one to leave except on service, 
no carriages to pass through the streets, no horseman 
to be in the streets unless the military on duty, no 
one to leave the gates of the City, but women who may 
have brought in coal or provisions, all the shops to 
be closed, but those of the provision markets and where 
bread is sold. He prefaces this decree by a strong 
abuse of us, and an exhortation to the Mexican Army 
to restore the lost lustre of their Military fame, etc. 
To-morrow I dine with the General. 

Saturday, 24th. We had to-day a true Yankee dish, 
one I did not expect to see so far in the interior of Mex- 
ico — codfish and the usual accompaniments. Though 
there were meats and fowl on the table, all were good 
Yankees enough to take no meat after the soup — mak- 
ing a simple but good dinner. 

Capt. N ^ of Phila., ex-member of Congress, 

was present. He is just recovering from a severe fit 
of illness. His mind is as weak as his body. He was 
strongly disposed to deliver us a Congressional discourse 
upon every subject introduced — one of those men, 
who, when they begin to talk, cast their eyes around 
to catch the eyes of others, and to force attention from 
as many as possible to their remarks. I am very fond 
of modesty, and never allow such orators of the table 
or room to entrap me, if I can decently avoid it. 

Genl. Scott confidently expects news of great interest 
from Mexico in two or three days. Mr. Trist has 
requested the Genl. to delay our advance, at least until 
Genl. Pierce arrives, as he thinks something favorable 
to peace may occur in that time. 

As I occasionally mention incidents which are strange 
and new, I will here allude to one which attracted my 



-)r &Lc^oO.-. /Vcyl^ 



262 An Artillery Officer 

attention this morning. I was lying down, and hearing 
the occasional tinkle of a little bell, I went to the win- 
dow to see what it was. I there saw two common 
Mexicans at their little market, in front of my window, 
one having on his back a box three by two feet, the 
double door of which was opened and presented, turned 
as he rang his bell, towards the market women; as it 
was thus presented to each group, they advanced 
towards it, and, bending forward, kissed an artificial 
flower in front of the glass, or the glass itself. The duty 
of the second Mexican was to open and close the door, 
and to receive the contributions given by nearly every 
one, the fruit and vegetables, tortillas (cakes made of 
Indian com) in his basket, and the money in a small 
tin box having a slit in the top. 

The large box had an image of an angel with an 
infant by his side — the sides of the interior of the box 
ornamented with flowers. Every one gives something; 
one three onions, another a pear, another a banana, 
etc., and the tortilla sellers gave each one of their 
small flat cakes. 

I have frequently heard this bell about eight at night, 
but did not know what it was rung for. The little 
tin money box I have frequently seen offered to the 
market people to kiss — mothers invariably raising 
their children up to kiss it also. It has a painting of 
the Virgin or some favorite saint of the church to which 
it belongs, and always gathers a few clakos (one and 
a half cents) from these poor Indians. 

I think I have told you that the tortillas were made 
of Indian com, soaked in lime water to remove the skin, 
and then ground by rubbing it by a long stone roller, 
or pin, on a small flat iron stone resembling a table. 
This appears to be the Mexican mill; the woman 




- 1 lllljj ^j*'^ 




In Mexico 263 

sits, having the slope towards her, and with the pin 
in her hands, she mashes the grain, keeping it 
moist till she forms a fine paste, which is baked in 
an earthen dish, placed on charcoal burning in an 
earthen furnace — all Mexican utensils for cooking, 
carrying, or holding water, etc., are made of an excel- 
lent earthen ware. 

Their spoons are either rudely made of wood, or 
part of a calabash, and frequently I see them using 
the tortilla as a spoon, bending it so as to hold a small 
quantity of their broths or stews, which are the ways 
they generally cook their food, in which they use red 
pepper very freely. I must confess that I have had 
no desire to eat what they prepare. I see daily exhibited 
by the market women scenes disgustingly filthy. 

Sunday, 25th. 

Another Sabbath, and all uncertainty about our 
movements. As late as four p.m. yesterday, Genl. S. 
was doubtful whether we would advance. I called at 
his Quarters this afternoon, but he was at church, and 
I did not see him. Capt. Myers' clerk told me that the 
Quartermasters had received orders to have every- 
thing ready for the advance of the Army in four 
days. 

We will not, I am confident, leave this City until 
the arrival, or near approach of Genl. Pierce, and he 
will not arrive, supposing him to have left on the i6th 
as reported, before the ist or 5th of August. It may 
well be, that Genl. Scott and Mr. Trist have received 
intelUgence of the state of parties in the Capital, [such] 
as to make it expedient, or necessary, for us to approach 
it. A few more days of doubt, and all will probably be 
certainty — no half-way measures, either peace or a war 



264 An Artillery Officer 

changed, in its character, from that which we have been 
conducting upon the most civilized principles. 

Genl. Pierce may, however, bring instructions from 
the Home Govt, altering all the schemes and plans we 
have been dreaming over in our quiescent state. 

Capt. De Hart spent the day with us ; he is improving, 
but as has been the case with all who have been pro- 
strated by disease in this Country, it will be some weeks 
before he will be sufficiently well to attend to duty. 
I saw Lt. Anderson out yesterday. Genl. Worth looks 
badly again. The sick list of our Army is now slightly 
above 2000 — a very considerable and important change 
in the strength of our force, where we are, at least, in 
need of all our bayonets. The spirit of our troops is, 
however, most excellent, and they will deserve success. 

Lt. Judd has just left our Quarters, and has, I am 
pleased to hear, improved sufficiently to enable him 
to take his seat at table. 

Howard tells me that my letter of the i8th was 
dispatched last night ; success attend it. I will not com- 
mence another sheet this evening. Good-night. 

Monday, 26th. 
Most unreasonable and ill-timed kindness in two 
sets of visitors has made it so late before I could take 
my seat to converse with you, that I shall soon be com- 
pelled to make my bow, very soon. From orders 
issued to the different departments of the Staff, it is 
certainly intended that we shall leave this City as soon 
as Genl. Pierce gets within a few days' march of it — 
that is, the leading Division will start, to be followed 
by the others in successive days, so timed that Genl. 
Pierce will reach here the day before the last Division 
will start. 



In Mexico 265 

If we have a fight near the City, it will probably be 
the great battle of the Mexican War. Pride to save 
their Capital from our grasp, a desire to revenge 
their repeated disastrous defeats, will urge them to 
exert their powers to the utmost. 

Our soldiery, flushed with victory, will, I am con- 
vinced, do more than mere duty calls for. Could they 
for one moment doubt of success, they must see that as 
we are situated, victory must be ours — a drawn battle 
even will not suffice. We must, we, with the blessing 
of God, will conquer. 

Genl. Scott heard yesterday that the Mexican Con- 
gress would do nothing— it is not expected that they 
will answer Santa Anna's last message to them, in which 
he gives them a lecture in relation to their course in 
instructing him in his duties. 

The news from Hd. Qrs. is still favorable — every- 
thing promises fair. If the Mexican Congress does 
not ruin our prospects, we may yet be home before 
winter. 

Tuesday, 27th. 

So great is the uncertainty as to Genl. Pierce's 
whereabouts, etc., so numerous the reports about his 
being harassed in his advance, that Genl. S. sent a 
Brigade, Genl. Persifer Smith's, with Duncan's Battery, 
and a squadron of Cavalry to commimicate with him. 

Genl. S. is one of the most prudent commanders I 
ever served under. Instead of wearing his troops out 
by issuing orders for them to hold themselves in readi- 
ness, on the circulation of every report about the 
enemy's approach, he has each case examined by some 
persons whom he can trust, and thus quietly exposes 
the falsity, or verifies the truth, of the rumor. 



I 



266 An Artillery Oflficer 

I heard him, a few days since, on Col. Hitchcock's 
mentioning a report that has been made of the arrival 
of some troops at Atlixco, say that he must get the 
Capt. of his Bandits to enquire into it — that twenty 
false reports might be made about the enemy, and that 
if we failed to enquire into the twenty-first, which 
afterwards proved true, as military men we would 
richly deserve censure. 

We have in our pay a Compy. of Mexicans who are 
called the Forty Thieves ; they are, I expect some of the 
gentlemen robbers Thompson mentions. They were 
asked, the other day, if they would not be afraid of 
being murdered by their countrymen for acting with 
us, after we left the Country, and their Captain's 
answer was: "That is our business, we will take care 
of ourselves." They are very useful in getting in- 
formation, etc., and are used individually or collect- 
ively, as their services are required. The Capt. says 
he can increase his band to 1500 or 2000, if a greater 
number be wanted than he now has. 

This afternoon, I went with Lt. Johnson to an "Old 
Curiosity Shop," where I purchased a Catholic Bible, 
1742 A.D., for Brother William. Mr. J. purchased a 
similar one for himself; he says that it is a present 
which William will prize very highly. Do not think 
that my old mania of purchasing books and pictures 
has again beset me — you would admire the cool non- 
chalance with which I examine choice old books, etc., 
which can be purchased very cheap here, and cannot 
be procured in the United States. I must, on leaving 
this Country, purchase some curiosities for you. 

A party leaves the City at seven in the morning, 
to visit Cholula, but, as I have been there, I will 
remain, so that Capt. Burke may go. Since the pay- 



In Mexico 267 

ments were made, our sick list has increased; we have 
now 2200 on the sick report. 

One word about the customs of the Country, before 
stopping. The market and common women address 
us as nifto (child) ; whether this is a term of endearment 
or not, I cannot say. I did not understand them as 
calling me so, until I found it was usually done. You 
refuse to give the price asked, and walk off, when you 
are frequently called back by that word, to take the 
article at your own price. Good-night. 

Wednesday, 28th. 

Unfortunately, I have been placed on a Court of 
Enquiry, demanded by Col. Riley, who avers that 
injustice has been, done his Brigade in Genl. Twiggs's 
report, and in those of some of the sub-commanders 
in Genl. Twiggs's Division. 

I fear that the personal feelings of Col. Harney have 
become interested in this matter, as he claims the 
storming and carrying of the height called by us Cerro 
Gordo, by Santa Anna, Telegraph Hill — whereas 
Riley states that his Command charged the hill in re- 
verse, at the same time Harney charged it in front; 
both may be right, and I hope that this may be so 
decided by the evidence. 

The other points are easily established, or contra- 
dicted; one is that Genl. Twiggs gives to Col. Baker, 
111. Vols., the credit of taking a Battery Col. Riley 
avers was won by his own Regt. His Court are Maj. 
Genl. Pillow, Brig. Genl. Cadwalader, Col. Clarke, 5th 
Infy., and Capt. Anderson, Recorder. 

I care very little about the labor of writing as much 
as I will have to do, did I not fear that it will materially 
interfere with my evenings' conversations with you. 



268 An Artillery Officer 

No one who is not as regular in his habits as I am can 
conceive of the pleasure with which I nightly resume 
my daily scrawls to you. 

I have advised many of my friends who are home- 
sick, and, to kill time, resort to rather expensive 
habits, to pursue the same plan, assuring them that 
they would soon derive benefit and gratification from 
it. It brings me, as it were, near to and in communion 
regularly with you, before retiring to bed. Writing to 
you is always, when I am well and not prevented by 
urgent business, the last work of the day, and is gener- 
ally finished on retiring for the night. 

I may be so much exhausted by my duties as Re- 
corder of this Court, as to shorten our discourses very 
considerably. This may be advantageous, as I find 
that I write now a great deal about nothing. Not a 
report in them to-day from Mexico. 

Thursday, 29th. 
Though the time for retiring has passed, and I 
have not yet finished my labors, I must have a 
short chat. I am happy to report that the misun- 
derstanding between Colonels Harney and Riley is, I 
think, from the testimony of to-day, likely to be 
solved by the Court in a manner probably grateful 
to the feelings of both. Col. Riley's report alludes to 
carrying a crest of the Telegraph Hill, lower than the 
principal crest carried by Col. Harney, not at all the 
same point, but at some distance from it. And again 
it appears that Col. Riley's Command took three guns 
of one of the enemy's Batteries simultaneously with the 
carrying of two of the same Battery (but at a distance 
of some sixty yards) by some Vols, to whom Genl. 
Twiggs ascribes the credit of taking the Battery. 



In Mexico 269 

Should there be no conflicting evidence, we shall 
soon finish, and I shall rejoice at there being no just 
grounds for finding serious fault with either Harney's 
or Riley's reports. 

I dined with the Genl. to-day, no news. A messen- 
ger is to be despatched towards Mexico to-morrow, 
with what communication I know not. 

Friday, 30th. 

The Court has proceeded very well to-day. Why 
other evidence is desired unless it be intended to collect 
under oath material for a history of the battles, I know 
not. I see the points made by Col. Riley already 
clearly settled by the evidence. I fear that we may be 
drawn into other matters. I must keep a good lookout 
to guard against this. 

It would seem from the rumors from Mexico, that the 
prospect of peace which began to lighten up a few days 
since, has disappeared, and that over the lovely land- 
scape we thought we could get a glimpse of, now hangs 
the dark and threatening cloud of War. 

The Mexican Congress of the 13th inst. sent what 
they called their ultimatum, on the question of peace 
or war, which we received in print to-day. This must 
be the paper alluded to in my date of the 24th inst. 
It is quite learned in constitutional law; they char- 
acterize our invasion as the most unjust of all aggres- 
sions, and say, "The people are resolved not to 
consent to an ignominious treaty, which will secure to 
our neighbors the possession of usurped territory and 
with it the dominion of the Continent, closing at the 
same time our political life in such manner that we 
shall not deserve even the compassion of other people ; — 
that the Congress has always resisted everything 



270 An Artillery Officer 

which seemed to open the door of peace, which would 
now be, in every way, disgraceful, and has not omitted 
zeal or precaution to prevent even the remotest danger 
of that disaster." 

Pretty strong language — but the very men who 
adopted that language by a vote of fifty-two to twenty- 
two, might the next day consent to a treaty of peace. 
Heavy bribes would, I have no doubt, if our Govt, 
would stoop so low as to offer them, buy a majority 
of these patriots. I wish I could witness the regenera- 
tion of the Mexicans proper. But alas, they bend their 
necks to the yoke of the Spanish dons, without thinking 
of their miserably degraded state. It will take a 
century to rouse them from their torpor, and to make 
them feel that they are free — 't is mockery to speak of 
Mexico as a Republic. The common laborers of the 
Country are slaves more lost in every point of view 
than our negroes; these arc the men who would be 
among the voters. Alas, alas! Having finished my 
homily, I will bid you good-night, as you must be 
sleepy after reading it. 

Saturday night, July 31st. 
I cannot retire without saying a few, they must be a 
very few, words, as I have been busily engaged, to- 
night, in bringing up my papers, so that I may have 
a hoHday to-morrow. I fear we shall be engaged a 
day or two longer, as Col. Riley insists upon intro- 
ducing a good deal of unimportant matter, and it is 
hard to check him. Genl. Scott visited Cholula to-day. 
Genl. Pierce has been heard from; he was at Jalapa. 

Sunday, August ist. 
Another month has passed, and another Sabbath 



In Mexico 271 

has come, finding me by the mercy of God still sensible 
of His great mercies. 

The news from Mexico, as derived from the papers, 
is not in the least degree favorable to peace. On the 
27th they mention Genl. Santa Anna consulting his 
principal officers as to the question whether our pro- 
positions relative to effecting peace ought to be con- 
sidered or not; placing their Govt, at once "in a position 
the most hostile." Genl. Valencia asked permission 
"to take 12,000 men and dislodge Genl. Scott from 
Puebla. " What a pity the Council did not let him 
come! The middle of the month will probably decide 
how much the gallant Genl. can accomplish in con- 
tending with our Army. 

'T is strange that Santa Anna, if he has any thoughts 
of peace, propounded the alternative of peace or war 
to his Army Officers. They, of course, desire the War 
to continue — little care they for their bleeding soldiery, 
their nearly exhausted Treasury, if they can be kept 
in office and well paid; the latter they will attend to 
themselves. 

The laborers, the merchants, the men of wealth, and 
lastly, but not the least interesting in my eyes, the 
poor and oppressed peasantry may one and all ardently 
desire to taste again the sweets of peace, but long 
will be the time ere their wishes are gratified, if Genl. 
Santa Anna and his Army are to decide when the War 
is to end. 

The more I think of our position, so far into the 
enemy's country, operating against them with Armies 
on so many points, and with forces so exceedingly 
small; when the results accomplished by them are 
considered, and thus far, without a serious reverse, I 
begin to liken our position to that of some of the 



I 



'^1^ An Artillery Officer 

Armies whose exploits are recorded in the Bible, and 
hope that our operations are blessed by God, whose 
instruments we may be, to effect some wise scheme of 
His providence. 

Why is this Nation now so stubborn? Never was 
a war conducted before in a manner so little abhorrent 
to all man's finer feelings. We have been now in this 
large City since May 15th, with a soldiery gathered 
from many Nations, many of them undisciplined, and 
yet, I will venture the assertion, without fear of con- 
tradiction, that, in no City of the same size, either in 
our own blessed Coimtry or in any other, is private 
property, or are private rights, more secure and better 
guarded than here. 

And our Courts, before which all offences of a nature 
in the least serious, against persons, property, or good 
morals, pretty surely come, will show that they have 
not been engaged in trying higher offences. Not an 
instance, I am certain, has been elicited, or brought 
to light, of one of our soldiers killing a Mexican. 

And since pay day, though we have many men 
daily drunk in the streets, and they are frequently 
insulting, only one case of a man's being killed in the 
street has occurred — and that might have been by some 
of his comrades. 'Tis truly wonderful, I cannot 
understand it. 

We hear of the movement of no more troops. Can it 
be that the Govt, thinks that Genl. Scott can conquer 
all Mexico with 8500 men; for we cannot leave this 
place with a larger force even after being joined by 
Genl. Pierce, as a heavy garrison must be left here 
with our sick. 

Genl. S. has written another bitter, truth- telling 
letter to the Secy, of War, giving vent to his just 



In Mexico 273 

indignation in terms that will excite strong feelings 
among the little men in Washington. He asks no 
favor. Enough for to-night. God be with you. 

Monday night, August 2nd. 
Only one word, for really I am so tired of writing 
that I cannot write. We had an afternoon session to- 
day, and though the Court give me no additional time 
to bring up proceedings, I am determined they shall 
find all right when we meet. Not a word of news, but 
that Midshipman Rogers, so long in the hands of the 
Mexicans, is now here. What news he brings, I know 
not. I hope that we shall finish in one day more, to 
enable me to resume my chat with you. Good-night. 

Tuesday, August 3rd. 

Thank God, I have received letters from you. They 
tell of your apprehensions about me. Oh, my wife, 
how full is my heart of gratitude to our Heavenly 
Father. He stayed, and, I hope, has dissipated, your 
burning fever, and over me He has always His pro- 
tecting shield. What can we do without Him? Oh! 
let us never cease to praise His holy name. 

The mail came in very unexpectedly bringing me 
your letters of the loth, i8th, and 20th, the latter 
giving me news to the 24th. I can write no more to- 
night. That Almighty God will continue to guard 
and protect you is my earnest prayer, and ever with 
me, an abiding, a soothing, happy hope and belief. 
Good-night. 

Wednesday, 4th. 
Having finished the proceedings of our Court, I 
took them to Genl. Scott, and, on his invitation. 



^. 



274 An Artillery Officer 

remained to sup with him. Supper was followed, about 
ten o'clock, by some hot whiskey punch. I knew that 
the punch would be excellent, and the company was 
good; my most esteemed host, Genl. Quitinda (a 
gentleman), Cadwalader (whom your Father knows), 
Mr. Trist, Captains Huger and Drum, and Maj. Kirby 
and I remained till punch time. 

The Army is to commence its advance upon Mexico 
this week. Genl. Pierce will arrive early the 6th -nst. 
Major Gaines arrived this evening, having effected 
his escape from the enemy. Good-night. 

Thursday, 5th. 

The order for our advance is issued. Genl. Twiggs's 
Division marches Saturday, 7th; Quitman's Sunday; 
Worth's Monday; and Pillow's Tuesday, loth, Col. 
Childs remaining here as Governor, and Capt. De Hart, 
just convalescent, as Lt. Governor. Every Officer and 
man incapable of performing three days' march, to be 
left, and organized into Companies, Regiments, etc., as 
they may be reported fit for garrison duty; the per- 
manent garrison is not yet named. 

This order, will, I presume, send our very amiable 
Lt. Col. to us again. God knows what the result of 
this movement may be. The Govt, has left us without 
funds, and our Staff Depts. are deeply in debt. In 
Mexico it is said that drafts on New York, etc., can be 
readily converted into cash. We must then perforce 
go there, and raise the wind, though we may have to 
pass through a heavy storm ere we can get at the cash. 

Lt. Thom, Genl. Pierce's A.D.C., says that they 
received information, after their being some days in 
march, that six vessels had arrived at Vera Cruz, sub- 
sequent to their departure, so that we may soon have 



In Mexico 275 

another re-enforcement. Genl. P. brings us about 
2500, including 300 Marines — the latter are very- 
acceptable, as they are always good troops. 

I fear that two of my notes to you have been lost, as 
I learn that two carriers, taking letters to Vera Cruz, 
have been taken, one hung, and the other's throat 
cut. I will continue to try all who venture, as one may 
be lucky enough to escape, and thus give you a line 
from me. 

Lt. Welch, 3rd Arty., will join to-morrow, with some 
recruits of Capt. Bunker's Compy. Lt. Thom tells 
us that my old friend Maj. Gait looks badly. I shall 
be most happy to take him by the hand, and regret 
that he comes not in good health, as his merry laugh is 
refreshing. We have not many good laughers among us 
now; thoughts of home, and the dreadful uncertainty 
of when we shall return to all we love on earth, are 
silvering many a head. God's will be done. He knows 
best all things. 

Father is right about ; he came into Genl. S.'s 

Quarters last night, fully two- thirds drunk. I was 
vexed and mortified to death. 

Friday, 6th. 

Genl. Pierce arrived with his Command, and I am 
happy in being able to say that friend Major Gait looks 
better than I expected to see him. I called, this after- 
noon, to see some of the Marines. Their Commander, 
Lt. Col. Watson, I knew some years since at Ports- 
mouth, N. H., and two of the Captains, Reynolds and 
Baker, are former acquaintances. I hoped that they 
would be assigned to our Division but they have been 
attached to Genl. Quitman's Brigade. 

Ours is, I believe, now the strongest Brigade in the 



276 An Artillery Officer 

Army, — it would therefore have been unreasonable 
to have added to our strength. 

By the bye, I heard to-day that Genl. Worth had 
written to Genl. Scott a half apologetic letter, upon 
which Genl. Scott, as he always does, jumped over all 
that had passed, and they are again reconciled. I hope 
it may be sincere, but Genl. W. is a little too impatient 
of control by his old Milty. Commander, who taught 
him the alphabet of war, and has taken him through all 
the classes, even to the highest in that school. 

We have another report from Mexico. That Valen- 
cia has fortified his position at Guadalupe, and declared 
against Santa Anna. That cannot be true — the enemy 
is too near the door to render justifiable such a step. 
All agree in the opinion that if we have a battle, it will 
be a hard fought one. 

Lt. Welch called this afternoon and delivered me 
your letter from Savannah dated May 29th. Among 
the newcomers, I see a son of Col. De Russey's. You 
saw him once or twice, I think, at West Point. Dis- 
missal and rejection from the Military Academy have 
proved very fortunate events for several young men, 
who are placed far above the heads of their more 
fortunate classmates, "who were fools enough to 
graduate." One man is Col. whose classmates are 
second Lieuts., and some of them very low down in 
that grade. Oh ! the sweets, the beauties of democracy. 
West Point is too aristocratic to have any attention 
paid to laws intended to protect the rights of those 
who plod through that institution. But thank God, 
every battlefield attests the steady valor of her pupils: 
there has been no faltering, no wavering among them. 
Though I have in my previous letters written enough 
about the sights of Puebla, I ought not to leave it 



In Mexico 277 

without saying something about the night market. 
Many scenes are worthy of Mr. Weir's pencil — those 
beautiful and rich contrasts of light and shade we so 
often admired in looking at our campfires. The 
principal market presents a more variegated view than 
does the little one in front of my window. 

I will say a few words about our house scene. Directly 
in front of my window is the stall of two women who 
sell all kinds of fruit, disposed in piles or pieces of mat- 
ting. This stall is covered with long shingles, and is 
closed behind by a piece of matting, but open on the 
sides and in front; the two are seated back, near a 
blazing fire of lightwood, giving a picturesque effect, 
as you see customers approach, and by change of 
position see them now in strong light, now mostly 
in deep shade. 

Next you find a different and the most ordinary, 
kind of stall, — it is a piece of matting fastened upon the 
top of a stake, by being tied to the ends of five or more 
cross-pieces, the pole sticking into a hole a few inches 
deep. These look, at a distance, like the umbrella 
we see on the old china plates; the arrangement for 
light is different here from the other, as he has a tripod 
about three feet high, with a blazing torch of light- 
wood on top, and the effect of the light from this is 
very fine; in the next you may perhaps see a 
candle, but this looks too poor by the side of its 
neighbors. 

The groups around these stalls, the figures passing 
in front of them, with now and then one suddenly 
em_erging from, or disappearing into the darkness of 
the background, with the effect of light on the piles 
of fruits, varying in colors from the snowy white of the 
onion to the yellow of the orange, or the dark hue of 



^7^ An Artillery Officer 

the sapote, form rich pictures. But bless me, I must 
close! Good-night. God guard you. 

Saturday, 7th. 

Genl. Twiggs has moved with his Division — the head 
of his column marched about ten miles, the rear, not 
more than half that distance. I presume that the 
object will be to accomplish the day's march before the 
rain commences, which is usually after three o'clock. 
Short marches will therefore be made all the way. 

The Genl. is very much worried to-day, at a report 
from Col. Childs , the newly appointed Civil and Milty. 
Governor , remonstrating against the inadequacy of the 
garrison proposed to be left here — the first Regt. Penna. 
Vols, and two Companies of Regulars, with the sick and 
all who are unable to perform three days' march, 
would, Genl. S. thought, afford a sufficient protection. 
What he will decide upon, I know not, but he is 
very uneasy. 

He dines to-day with Genl. Pierce, at Genl. 
Worth's. I was with him from his dinner hour, dining 
there, till he went out to dinner. Genl. P. introduced 
the Col. and Officers of the 9th New England Regt. 
to the Genl. They presented some fine faces and heads 
among the group. 

Genl. S. hopes, that instead of the Governor's chair, 
your Father will consent to be run for the Senate. I 
told him of the position in which Father is now placed — 
that he would be told by the Whigs, "If you do not 
run for Governor, we shall lose the State elections and 
consequently the United States Senator — you run, we 
carry everything — and this election is all important to us 
and our party. ' ' Strong points these may be, in Father's 
opinion ; and if so, as a politician, he cannot refuse. 



In Mexico 279 

Maj. Wade is worried to death by a letter he re- 
ceived the other day from his wife; he has alluded to 
it several times, but I never ask any questions, parti- 
cularly about family affairs, and again, I am tired of 
throwing away counsel and advice, and have resolved 
henceforth to be very discreet if I can. 

Our Lt. Col. assumed the command of the Regt. this 
afternoon — this cuts short the reign of Capt. Burke. 
Capt. Kendrick of the 2nd Arty, is to remain here. I 
regret that exceedingly, as the Capt. is very anxious 
to go on, and he would collect a mass of matter of the 
geology, etc., of the Country between this place and 
Mexico and in the suburbs of the City, which would 
be valuable. 

I will now retire. I intend devoting to-morrow 
to finishing this and some other letters I have com- 
menced. No. 18 will then give the beginning of our 
advance to the Capital. 

Sunday, 8th. 

We have received our orders to march at 6 o'clock 
in the morning; to prepare for that start, our reveille is 
to be beat at j o'clock. Why three hours are required 
to prepare for starting, I could never yet see. The men 
would march much better by not being aroused so 
unnecessarily early. 

I had intended, when I finished writing last 
night, to have devoted some two or three hours of 
to-day to writing, but I have had enough to occupy 
me, attending to Compy. and private matters. I 
saw Col. Childs in the City this morning, riding through 
one of its streets with half a dozen Dragoons as an 
escort. He is capable of making as much out of a 
trifle as any man I ever saw. He must be a good 



280 An Artillery Officer 

soldier, or he never could have gained the reputation 
he had in the Army. 

I leave thirteen men, invalids, here, but many of them 
are capable of performing light garrison duty. All 
the married men are well, and accompany me. Of poor 
Cramer, left sick at Vera Cruz, I have not heard for a 
very long time. I feel very uneasy about him. Suffem, 
the drummer, is rapidly improving, but is yet too weak 
to march with the Compy. to-morrow. Poor little 
fellow, he is very anxious to go on. 

One of the young Georgia officers dined with us to- 
day — Lt. Forsyth ; he is not very brisk in his appearance. 
He is from Macon, I think he said. We hear that 
other troops are at Vera Cruz. Can Duncan be among 
those? We hope that the most dangerous part of the 
yellow fever season has passed. Genl. Pierce, I think, 
did not lose a man by the vomit, after he got into 
Camp. 

I will now close this letter, the last from Puebla, 
commencing another the first evening I have leisure. 
I leave Puebla with some regret, as I have had many 
delightful chats with you and have had several of your 
letters, in my snug room here. That our Heavenly 
Father will, in his wisdom, so order events as soon to 
restore me to you, and that He will continue to pour 
upon us His choicest blessings, crowning, in each of us, 
all with pure faith in Him, is my earnest and constant 
prayer. 

No. i8. Rio Prieto (Black River). 

Monday, August 9th. 
Four leagues (eleven miles) on the road to Mexico. 
We are, at last, off for the far famed City of Mexico. 
Our march has been a very unpleasant one, in conse- 



In Mexico 281 

quence of having eyes, nose, mouth, and ears filled with 
dust; luckily for us, the day's march was so short, 
that we reached our bivouac by 12 o'clock. 

To let you into some of the discomforts sometimes 
resulting from want of rank, or rank not well defined, 
I will give you an anecdote, the principal sufferers by 
which are Major Wade and myself. The Major and 
Capt. A. were both, during the absence of Col. Beltonfrom 
the Regiment, assigned to duty as Field Officers. Lt. 
Col. B. having reported for duty with the Regt. relieved 
Capt. Burke from its command, and gives us as the 
orders now stand, four Field Officers, one per Compy. 

Anticipating something of what has happened, I 
took command of the Compy. the day before Col. 
Belton joined. Yesterday, when we were having our 
mess furniture packed, Major W. asked if I could take 
the mess articles in "G" Co. wagon. I told him I 
feared it would be impossible, as the wagon would be 
very full, but I would have as many articles carried as 
was possible. 

I accordingly this morning had one of the boxes put 
in my wagon, and after we were out of the City, Den- 
astonished me by saying that the box containing all 
our provisions, tea, coffee, and most of the cooking 
articles and table furniture was left behind. 

It seems that the Major made a fruitless attempt to 
have it placed in the field staff wagon. Not being in 
command of the Compy. he could not order it to be 
put with the Company's property. Thus has the Major 
verified the truth of the fable of the ass between two 
bales of hay. 

My position is pretty good, as friend Derr will easily 
manage to supply me with coffee from the Compy,, and 
my old soup-digester is in the box that came. I am 



-^^- An Artillery Officer 

glad it is safe. Wo have sent bade, and in a da}' or two 
tlie error ^^■ill have boon rootifiod. 

Genl. Scott and StaA' arc probably now with the 
advance, as he left yesterday morning with Gonl. 
Quitman's Di\'ision — intending to leave it, under an 
escort of Cavalry, and overtake Genl. Twiggs. 

The dust was so very unpleasant to-day that I could 
not enjoy the scener5\ One road, sufficiently undu- 
lating for good marching, passed through an almost 
continued succession of com fields, from that reccix-ing 
its first, and perhaps only ploughing, to that in which 
the com is ripe, and acres of beans. The two snowy 
mountains, so often mentioned in my letters from 
Puebla, are on the left and in front of us. As we 
advance, the old crater near the top of Popocatepetl 
begins to shew its ragged lip distinctl}'.' \Miy can 
I not sketch? Twould give anything for a good dagiior- 
reot^-pe apparatus, which would enable me to present 
you with accurate representations of scenes which 
please me here. 

I was going to say that I never would again go into 
foreign parts, without having one, but \Wth my present 
feelings, I willingly ask you to terminate that sentence, 
as the little grammarian would say, with a full stop 
after the word "parts." Several Mexicans accom- 
panied us and I noticed that they ate the stock of the 
com as we do the sugar cane. 

The men have stood the march pretty well. I 
started Derr on the pon}- placed at my disposal by 
Major W., but the poor fellow could n't stand it longer 
than about four miles, when I saw him leading him, 
saying that he was tired of riding. 

We bivouac on a road, leading perpendicularly to 

» A sketcli was enclosed in letter. 



I V. 




o r. 



In Mexico 283 

the right from the main road, just giving room for the 
Officers' tents, and a passway between them and the 
stacks of arms, a broad ditch separating us, on either 
side, from a corn field in which our men, in despite of 
orders, will collect some fine roasting ears for their 
supper. Enough for one night's journal. Good-night, 
etc., etc. 

San Martin el Grande, about eleven miles from 
Rio Prieto. 

Tuesday, loth. 

After another dusty march, not quite so bad 
as yesterday, because of our not having as much wind, 
we reached this place at half -past twelve. The country, 
to be more particular, the land along the road, is very 
rich, the corn being higher and of richer growth than 
any I have seen in Mexico. The com fields extend for 
miles along the road, which passes through them, 
separated by a ditch, the earth of which forms on the 
corn field side a tolerably steep embankment. The 
divisions between the fields appear to be mere lanes, 
or wide roads. 

You see at the distance of a mile from the road, as 
you approach San Martin, a small piece enclosed by a 
post and rail fence, nearly the only one I have seen in 
this Country, and in the suburbs the fields of pepper and 
beans are enclosed by a fence of clay — unbumt brick, 
I suppose the book-makers would call it. I saw some 
Mexicans repairing a dam; this is secured by large 
pieces of sod, placed on each other, the grassy side up, 
rammed or beaten down by a large maul. You would 
have been amused to see them work — one man digs 
the sod, using for this a Mexican spade of wood, shod 
with iron; another man carries the sods on his back. 



284 An Artillery Officer 

using for this purpose the strap passing over his shoulders, 
as so often described. 

In one field, I counted twenty-three ploughs at 
work, each drawn by two oxen, managed by means of 
the long goad, described in my letter about Cholula. 
By the bye, we see along the road constantly, pieces of 
pottery, giving the land the appearance of having been 
a huge potter's yard, "d /a Trollope." 

About two hours after we halted, all were called to 
arms by the beating of the generate. A few lancers, 
it is said, were seen on some eminence around the town, 
which caused this stampede, as such false alarms are 
called; all expect another to-night. We are very 
unfortunate, as we have more in our Division than they 
have in either of the others. The love plant and the 
four o'clocks, with the morning glory, we saw apparently 
growing wild. 

The first view, just as day was dawning this morning, 
of the top of Popocatepetl was more beautiful than any 
I have had. As you chanced to look in its direction, 
your attention might be caught by an exceedingly 
delicate white pyramid in the heavens; as the eye 
rests on it, it gradually assumes a more distinct and 
better marked outline and finally, at sunrise, the snow- 
clad mountain stands perfectly defined before you. 

Early in the morning the snow is tinted with a beauti- 
ful tint of light blue. But the mountain, as first seen, 
just as the earliest rays of the rising sun kiss it, had to 
me the appearance of a dream : I can express the effect 
on me in no better manner. I wish I could so describe 
it to Mr. Weir, as to have it painted. 'T is said that 
the Indians called this mountain the "Blazing Star." 
As we must prepare for a stampede, I will now retire. 
Good-night, etc., etc. 



In Mexico 285 

Chalco, Friday, 13th. 

We were agreeably disappointed, in not being dis- 
turbed in our rest, what little the fleas did not deprive 
us of, at San Martin. That day's march was not very 
interesting — a few miles of the rich plain was passed, 
and we commenced the gradual ascent of the mountains 
separating the plains of Puebla, etc., from that of 
Mexico. 

The road was pretty good for a mountain one; 
pine and oak, with an occasional undergrowth of 
laurel and two or three kinds of trees that I did not 
recognize as American friends, skirted our course. 
Coarse sandstone and pudding-stone with pieces of 
volcanic origin, were all I noticed in mineralogy. 

At ten or eleven miles we crossed the bridge of Tema- 
lucan, and about four o'clock in a cold rain halted seven 
or eight miles further at Rio Frio, where I passed a very 
uncomfortable night. Yesterday morning, we started 
about six o'clock to halt, as we were informed, at the 
Venta de Cordova, a march of only eleven miles. 

The country, this day, was much more broken than 
that passed over yesterday — a few miles this side of 
Rio Frio, we passed under several hills, where the 
Mexicans had completed, or commenced batteries, to 
defend the road. Had they made a stand there, we 
should have lost several of our brave troops, but the 
Mexicans must have lost their batteries. 

At ten o'clock precisely, by my watch, on reaching 
the top of a little hill, my eyes caught the first view of 
the valley of Mexico. There it lay, as seen through the 
narrow opening made by the road, in the overhanging 
trees; a quiet landscape, having in the foreground a 
sheet of water; the portion of the valley visible blending 
itself imperceptibly in distant mountains, which could 



286 An Artillery Officer 

scarcely be distinguished, the day being at that moment 
cloudy, with a gentle mist from the clouds which 
rested on their sides. 

Every turn of the road now opened to us a new or 
more extensive view in which the pictures were formed ; 
every variety of green that could be formed by the 
varied light and shade of passing clouds and by real 
difference of shade, with mountains here, nearly in 
the foreground, there, in the distance, and beyond, 
limiting the view; and lake, in this part, almost un- 
distinguishable from the grass and slime, which nearly 
covered it, to the clear water, in which the shadows 
of the passing clouds were visible; the picture studded 
with haciendas, some traced out by their huge mud 
walls enclosing immense courtyards, like fortifications, 
villages with churches, etc., presented views which 
were charming to those who hoped that there lay the 
City, from which they must return to their beloved 
homes. 

Indeed, independent of everything, the scenery was 
beautiful. The descent was rapid and the view of 
our Division, which could be seen distinctly by looking 
ahead and in rear (we were near the rear), as it wound 
its way down compactly and rapidly, was the most 
beautiful panoramic picture I ever saw; our wagon 
train extended two or three miles, and could be seen 
with their white tops passing through the trees which 
shaded the road. 

Everything from the Rio Frio to the Venta de 
Cordova was wild, not a trace of a house was visible ; 
this day's march and that of yesterday, however, 
told us too plainly that man with all his worst 
passions had been there — the cross, here, of large 
pieces of wood, with the name of the murderer's victim, 



In Mexico 287 

the year of his death, and an appeal to the passer-by 
to utter a prayer for the benefit of his soul; there, of 
two simple sticks, or a single one with the branches 
forming that holy emblem, marks the place of murder. 
In some places, a little kind of altar, scooped out of 
the rock, had the cross and name rudely cut. 

The timber on the roadside was the same as that 
seen on the day before, but some of the oaks and pines 
were about three feet in diameter — the pines beautifully 
straight; on this side of the mountain we. saw cedar 
in abundance. Along the route grew beautiful flowers, 
some of which would form valuable additions to our 
garden flowers. 

We are now in a dirty village at the head of Lake 
Chalco, whose name it bears. The lake, or rather the 
slime covered water of the lake, is within two hundred 
yards of the shoemaker's shop we inhabit. The market- 
ing is brought in canoes, which drawing little water are 
paddled through the slime and weeds. 

Genl. Scott, who is on the main road leading between 
Lakes Chalco and Texcoco, paid Genl. Worth a visit 
this morning. He is in fine spirits, and has his en- 
gineers engaged to-day in reconnoitring the approaches, 
between those lakes, to the City. He hopes to succeed 
in turning Penon Grande with its strong batteries, 
keeping its garrison in check by holding near it a strong 
force and reaching the suburbs of the City without the 
immense sacrifice the storming of that hill now sur- 
rounded by a sheet of water would cost us. 

Genl. Worth has been directed to reconnoitre the 
road leading from our position around Lake Chalco to 
the rear of the City. The reconnoissance being com- 
pleted, the Genl. will decide on his plan of attack and 
our Division will lead. We are collecting boats and 



288 An Artillery Officer 

timber to be used as may be deemed advisable. If 
necessary, the City may be approached by water from 
this and from several other points. An order has this 
moment been received, asking for the number of boat- 
builders and caulkers in our Division. 

Genl. Pillow arrived this afternoon, with his Com- 
mand, which is now in this place and in some haciendas 
near us. We shall soon have stirring times, in which, 
I fear, I shall not be able to keep up my daily conver- 
sations with you. Last night I did not write because 
of my being directed by our Dr. to change my quarters 
from those selected to dryer ones, making it late before 
I was fixed. The night before was too damp and cold 
for me to open my escritoire. But I will not now tire 
you by too long a talk. Good-night. 

Saturday, 14th. 

Last was a memorable night; we had been in bed 
just long enough to get comfortably into the first nap, 
when we were roused by Dr. Satterlee's entering and 
directing our Surgeon to go about five miles into the 
country where he would find Lt. Hamilton, an acting 
aid-de-camp of Genl. Scott's, badly wounded. The Dr. 
kept us awake some time before he got off, and returned 
in about an hour, having met the Infy. sent out with 
Lt. H. returning; by the Comdg. officer of which he 
was informed that Lt. H. was well taken care of in 
a hacienda, and under the care of a French doctor who 
was there, and that he was too sick to be moved. 

Two wounded men were soon brought for the Doc- 
tor's attention, and as we were separated from the 
hospital by only a thin partition, balmy sleep paid us 
a very unsatisfactory and short visit, before reveille 
was beat. 



In Mexico 289 

Lt. Hamilton is now here, having been brought in 
on a Htter. Dr. Holden says that he is in no immediate 
danger; last night he had a very profuse hemorrhage, 
and his life was despaired of. He started about twelve 
yesterday with an escort of Dragoons and Infantry, 
to bring a gentleman named Robinson into town, who 
is said to be well acquainted with the routes leading to 
Mexico. ' 

The Infy. halted in a small village, from which they 
were enabled to watch, from an eminence, the advance 
of the Cavalry, which proceeded with Lt. Hamilton. 
The Cavalry had not proceeded far before they were 
surrounded by a body of Lancers, say about two hund- 
red, who made furious charges on them — the contest, 
though very unequal, was well maintained by our 
men, numbering about seventy, for half an hour, when 
the enemy retreated. 

The Infy. soon joined the Cavalry, — Lt. Hamilton 
was found badly speared, one Dragoon killed, another 
mortally wounded, and one of the officers of the native 
Spy Compy. slightly wounded. Six of the Mexicans 
were killed. I fear that Lt. H. may not survive, as 
his lungs are thought to be woimded. He is a very 
gentlemanly Officer. 

Lt. Col. Duncan returned from a reconnoitring party 
this afternoon along the left shore of Lake Chalco; his 
report is, I learn, favorable, representing the road as 
perfectly practicable half way to the City, as far as he 
went. 

The Engineers also finished their reconnoissances on 
the other roads, those between the Lakes Texcoco and 
Chalco. They were permitted by the Mexicans to 
pass aroimd the Penon, at about three hundred yards 
distance from it, without being fired upon. Another 



290 An Artillery Officer 

party advanced as far as the town of Mexicalsingo ; 
the road to within three hundred yards of that place, 
was clear of any obstructions, then, it was considerably 
narrowed, and was completely swept by the guns of 
several batteries. 

To-morrow I expect to see Genl. Scott's order for 
our advance. I marched on guard this morning with 
the Compy. but, in consequence of a very great change 
in the weather, a cold, ugly rain, the Dr. advised my 
being retired. I have therefore turned over the guard 
to the subaltern on duty with me, and am now in my 
Quarters. I the more willingly acquiesce in this, as I 
am convinced were I exposed to-night, I would have 
another attack of chills and fever, which would keep me 
from the coming fight. Good-night. 

Sunday morning, 15th. 
Orders have just been received, half -past eleven, that 
we are to start at three this afternoon — our Division, 
followed, I presume, by the others, approach Mexico 
by the road which has Lake Chalco on its right. We 
therefore strike the Capital in rear. Ft. Chapultepec 
will then be our first point of attack. I hope that I 
may have daily some opportunity of adding a few lines 
to this letter. I go on with a full and unwavering 
faith in the mercy and kindness of our Heavenly Father. 
He will do what is best for us. May He bless and pre- 
serve you. Good-day. 

San Garggorio, Monday evening, i6th. 

We left Chalco yesterday in a little sprinkle, but with 

every prospect of a heavy rain; we were, however, 

agreeably disappointed, as we reached our encamping 

ground, Tetelco, and passed the night without rain. 



In Mexico 291 

This morning's march, a short one, say of eight miles, 
was quietly made, as no enemy was seen, and no 
obstructions met with. 

Genl. Scott, who did not leave Chalco till this 
morning, has arrived in our Camp. We halt, after 
our short march, to enable the new Divisions to come 
up. We are now about twelve miles from Mexico, and 
may have something to do to-morrow. Good-night. 

Tete de Pont, three and one half miles from 
Mexico. 

August 24, 1847. 

The last great battle has, I hope, been fought in 
this ill fated Country. Our Army is now quietly await- 
ing the result of the labors of the Commissioners who are 
now occupied in their labors. The mail, which takes 
this, will, I think, give the news of what they accom- 
plish. I am so far from Hd. Qrs., about five miles, that 
I really know nothing of what is being done there; 
I only know that there is a suspension of hostilities, 
and that the Army is now employed in securing am- 
munition taken in large quantities from the enemy, in 
attending to the wounded, and in preparations for any 
work they may be called on to perform. 

First, as to myself — you will be as deeply mortified 
as I was, at learning that I was not engaged in any of 
the series of actions which placed us in our present 
victorious positions. 

I started on horseback with the Compy. on the morn- 
ing of the 20th, having been seriously indisposed for 
several days, and met Dr. Satterlee, who told me that 
I could not go, that the road leading to the position we 
were to occupy was impassable for horses, and it was 
nonsense for me to think of attempting to go on foot. 



292 An Artillery Officer 

I told him how great my amviety was to be in the fight ; 
he said that he did not think we would have a fight, 
that we were to be placed in position to await events. I 
then remarked that I would see Dr. Holden. He agreed 
with me that I might attempt to go on. We advanced 
about a mile or two, when Dr. Holden came up, and 
told me that Dr. Satterlee told him that he ought 
to order me back, that I could not go on with the 
troops. 

Feeling very badly, and hoping that there would be 
no fight, thus was I compelled to separate myself 
from the Regt. I halted, taking my faithful man Derr 
with me to San Antonio, the Genl. Hd. Qrs., and threw 
myself on my friend Capt. Irvin's bed, feeling wretch- 
edly enough. My kind friends, Drs. Harney and 
Lawson, soon came to see me and to have my wants 
supplied. 

At night, Genl. Scott and his Staff returned, from 
whom I learned the brilHant events of the day's work. 
Genl. Scott was in fine spirits, and I congratulated him 
from the bottom of my heart. He was for a Httle time 
much affected, and spoke in most affectionate terms of 
Father. He makes me take my meals and a cot in 
his room. The next day, finding that my Regt. was to 
advance with the rest of the Army, and almost hoping 
that there would be another battle, I determined at all 
risks to join my Compy. and — me void, I hope with a 
heart ready for any service, but much chastened by 
the accounts received of the suffering of the dying and 
wounded on the battlefield, and of those who have 
since been placed under the knives of the surgeons. 

The newspapers will give you fuller and better ac- 
coimts than I can, but I will give you an imperfect 
sketch. The Army left Puebla in successive Divisions 



In Mexico 293 

on the 7th, 8th, 9th, and loth days of this month, was 
placed in quarters and in bivouacs on the plain of Mex- 
ico on the 14th inst. On the afternoon of the 13th, Lt. 
S. Hamilton, aid-de-camp to Genl. Scott, was lanced 
near Chalco, the then position of the 1st Division. 

The 2nd Division was on the main road leading to 
Mexico, which the Engineers had been reconnoitring. 
Genl. Scott, after full reconnoissances, determined to 
approach the City by the road leading along Lakes 
Chalco and Xochimilco, and the ist Division leading the 
advance started from Chalco on Sunday afternoon, 
15th inst. 

By short marches, we approached, seeing nothing 
of the enemy till the morning of the 17th when he 
shewed himself in small parties along the eminences 
skirting the road; from these positions he was soon 
driven by oui skirmishers. One man of our Division 
was wounded. We halted that night in San Augustin. 

Early the next morning, i8th, a field work having 
been discovered on the road to Mexico, we were ordered 
forward, our Brigade leading, all expecting and anxious 
for a fight. We advanced, say a mile, when we were 
halted, and had been there about half an hour when 
we heard that Capt. Thornton, 2nd Dragoons, had 
been killed while covering a party of oiu" Engineers 
reconnoitring the work we expected to take, San 
Antonio. 

A diagonal movement, across a field towards a haci- 
enda on the right, showed the knowing ones that the 
work was not then to be attacked in front. The Divi- 
sion was kept under arms, and parties of Engineers 
despatched in various directions, to ascertain if the 
work could not be turned. The reports were not made 
till night, when it was found that the work was too 



294 An Artillery Officer 

strong for a front attack, but that there was a trail 
which might be rendered practicable for Infy. leading 
to its flank. 

Our troops remained on wet ground and under a 
succession of heavy showers of rain during most of 
this day. We bivouacked at night in the hacienda. 
The next day, 19th, the army awaited the arrival of 
the Divisions of Twiggs and Quitman, reported near, 
and the further reconnoissances of our Engineers. 

Towards afternoon. Pillow was ordered to cover a 
road-making party, engaged in opening a road leading 
farther to the left than the one we were on. A fire 
was soon opened on this party, from a strong field-work, 
contrarios, occupied by the enemy. It was actively 
sustained till night without any result. Early the 
morning of the 20th this work was carried by Genl. 
P. Smith (Rifles) and our gallant friend Col. Riley. 

This attack not having been made at as early an 
hour as was anticipated, our Brigade was ordered to the 
support of the troops designated for the attack. On 
our approach, the firing had already ceased, the work 
having been taken. I was ordered back. 

The Brigade soon received orders to countermarch, 
and advancing rapidly up the road, from which we 
had turned off on the i8th, found the enemy, having 
abandoned their work, in retreat. Quick pursuit was 
given, and the first intimation given of proximity to 
another work was the reception of a fire of grape from 
its guns. The Division was ordered to turn into a 
com field on the right of the road, and to storm the 
work. 

Our Regt., the storming party nearest the road, ad- 
vanced under a galling fire of grape and musketry, to 
the edge of the com field, when the number of men in 



In Mexico 295 

advance was deemed entirely inadequate to assault 
the strong field-work, then seen about lOO yards in 
front of them. 

It had two four-pound guns, two heavy pieces, one an 
18 pounder, and its parapets lined by perhaps 2500 men. 
In this field, and near the edge of it, our loss was very 
severe. ''G" Co. lost its Orderly Sergt. Brown (an 
invaluable soldier, who received two mortal wounds) 
and three privates; Porter, the Artificer, slightly 
wounded, and seven privates, wounded, none I hope 
severely. My loss was greater in proportion to my 
strength than either of the other Companies. 

Major Wade was the only Officer of our Regt. 
wounded, a ball passed through the fleshy part of his 
leg — the calf. We have to mourn the death of many 
brave friends; Captains Capron and Burke (of Tampa 
Bay Memory), the two youngest Capts. in the 1st Arty., 
were shot dead. In this, I hear I was misinformed; 
Capt. C. lived about half an hour. Capt. B. was first 
shot through the hand, fainted, and as he was being 
borne off the field, was killed by another ball. Poor 
Mrs. Capron and her children, it makes my heart bleed 
to think of them. Capt. P. Butler, S. C, fell at the 
head of his Regt. which had faltered imder a deadly 
fire. Capt. W. Anderson, 2nd. Infy., was mortally 
wounded. 

I have not time to mention the gallant actions fought 
by the other Divisions. Four distinct and hard con- 
tested works were carried that day. In the work taken 
by our Division, and in which in the morning there 
were 5000 men, I am now writing. It is the strongest 
field of fortification I ever saw. 

Col. Butler was the highest officer in rank who fell. 
Col. Ward Burnett, N. Y. Regt., was wounded Aug. 20th 



296 An Artillery Officer 

Col. Burnett had the lockjaw for two weeks, and 
is now out on his crutches. Capt. P. Kearney, 1st 
Dragoons, lost his left arm; it has been amputated 
above the shoulder. 

The papers will give exceedingly interesting and full 
details of all the incidents of the day. For ourselves, 
let us unite in thanks to our Heavenly Father for our 
preservation. For His own good purpose I have been 
thwarted in one of my heartfelt wishes. He knows 
best. 

I must now send this to Hd. Qrs. as an express will 
certainly be despatched the moment the Commissioners 
report. That God will continue to guard and preserve 
you, and soon restore me to you, is my sincere prayer. 
Be not alarmed about me, it is only a touch of the old 
Florida complaint, produced by exposure to wet, and 
sleeping in wet clothes. A few days' rest will soon 
restore me. 

Tacubaya, Friday, Aug. 27th. 

This poor letter was sent and returned with a state- 
ment that there was no mail, and that it was uncertain 
when one would be sent. I shall, however, finish it 
as one of my regular series, and send it by the first 
opportunity. 

Lieut. Johnson of our Regt. says that he must go 
to the United States with the first escort. On the 
morning of the 25th my long threatened touch of fever 
and chill visited me. It was produced undoubtedly 
by the dampness of the position in which we were 
bivouacked. Yesterday morning, we were marched to 
this place, where, having a comfortable room, I shall 
get well, as I can now take care of myself. 

Last night we were under orders to be prepared with 



In Mexico 297 

sixty rounds of cartridges for a night attack, but the 
storm blew over. It is said to have been caused by 
the conduct of the Mexicans in not permitting our 
wagons to enter the City for suppHes, as agreed upon 
by the terms of the Armistice. Just as night ap- 
proached, however, Genl. Santa Anna sent a communi- 
cation to Genl. S. that Commissioners had been 
appointed who would meet Mr. Trist this day. The 
meeting, I presume, took place, as Mr. Trist passed 
out of town with an Escort about the appointed 
time. 

So I hope the good work of peace-making has been 
commenced. 'T is reported that our wagoners were 
fired upon to-day and that Santa Anna's troops fired 
at the mob who did it. They appear sore under the 
gentle thrashing they have received and have not per- 
haps had enough to keep them quiet. 

Lt. Judd, who has improved very much since I 
last mentioned him, informs me that Genl. Quitm.an 
intends returning to the United States. He came 
out not to make political capital, but to fight, and 
is, I presume, disheartened at not being engaged 
in the last battles. He is, perhaps, the best of the 
appointments, and I shall regret his leaving us; he 
is a gentleman; his successor may, by accident, be 
one. 

Poor Lt. Irvin, shot through the neck, just in front 
of the jugular vein, is, I fear, too badly wounded to 
recover. Of the Armistice I say nothing special, as 
the newspapers will present you with a copy, perhaps, 
some time before you receive this, as I do not doubt 
that Mr. Kendall sent some days ago his report of the 
battle, and as soon as concluded, a copy of the Articles 
of the Armistice. 



298 An Artillery Officer 

If report be true, and in this case I cannot doubt it, 
the 3rd Arty, has been cruelly treated by Genl. Worth 
and Col. Garland. Col. Belton gave a full report, 
giving in detail all the operations of the 20th as far 
as the 3rd was an actor, and spoke in high terms of 
the conduct of some, perhaps all the Officers; this 
report was returned, with instructions. 

Col. G. stated from Genl. W. that all should be 
omitted but the simple fact that at such an hour the 
Regt. entered the field-work, and 't is said that no 
mention is made of an Officer of the 3rd, that its Com- 
mander even is not named. ' 'T is too strange, almost, 
to be true. 

Col. B. is very blamable for altering his report, if 
he did so, to suit the fancy or whim of his superior. 
He is, however. Commissioner to see the terms of the 
Armistice complied with, and cares very little for the 
Regiment. 

The order given to the Regt. on that day to storm a 
work which had not been reconnoitred, can hardly 
be sustained before military men, and caused the loss 
of many of our best soldiers. Alas, alas, what is fame, 
what is glory? 'Tis but the soldier's dream. It haunts 
him in his slumbers, and shortens the long weary night 
with its pleasing apparition, but after passing through 
the maddening excitement of the morrow's battle, all 
his hopes are crushed by the envy, prejudice, or folly 
of those whose duty it is to protect and advance him, 
and he finds a Staff Officer who did Hterally nothing 
praised for high gallantry. 

I think I had better lay down my pen for to-night 
as I cannot now write with patience on the subject I 

' Capt. Anderson was, be it remembered, not in this battle, or these 
remarks would not have been made. 



In Mexico 299 

have touched. Making a few remarks about the 
wounded, I will close for the night. 

Lt. Hamilton is doing very well. Major Wade is 
also rapidly improving; in ten days more, I hope he 
will be walking about. Lt. Kearney is also doing as 
well as could be hoped for. And now, my wife, accept 
my best prayers and wishes that we may soon meet, 
not to be again separated till the great summons calls 
us, after a happy and contented life here, to a better 
existence in Heaven. 

28th. I have just learned that the courier of the 
British Minister will take this, and hasten to enclose it. 

No. 19. Tacubaya, Mexico. 

August 28, 1847. 

I hastily finished and attempted to despatch by the 
messenger of the British Minister, who leaves to-morrow 
morning, a supplement to No. i8, but I fear that the 
letter was sent too late, as I hear that the packages 
were made up this morning, before I learned that he 
would take letters for our officers. This mischance, if it 
prove one, I shall regret most deeply, as I am certain 
that many of my friends will mourn my death instead 
of Capt. J. W. Anderson, 2nd Infy. You will see the 
name correctly reported in the Picayune, as I requested 
Mr. Kendall to be particular in his report. 

Poor Lt. Irvin, whose case was mentioned in my last 
letter, died yesterday and was buried to-day. He was 
a fine gallant soldier. Major Wade and Capt. Kearney, 
both of whom I saw to-day, are doing well. Our loss 
in the actions of the 20th collectively, called the Battle 
of Mexico, as it extended to the gates of the City 
(Capt. Kearney being shot when fifty or seventy yards 



300 An Artillery Officer 

from its wall), amounts in killed and wounded to 1052, 
(I think exactly) nearly one seventh of those engaged, 
as I do not suppose that there were as many as 8000 
in the fight. 

The loss of the enemy must exceed 5000, as the 
ground was in places thickly strewn with their dead 
and wounded men. What a sacrifice of life! God 
grant that Victory may be crowned with Peace. We 
cannot stand many such victories. 

The impression in high quarters is, that a treaty 
will be concluded, and then for home, never, no never, 
to leave my beloved land to fight again in foreign 
lands. 

Our soldiers and Army followers are behaving badly, 
robbing and insulting the Mexicans; this has caused 
the assembling of a Milty. Commission, of which I am 
Judge Advocate, which is to meet from time to time 
as cases may occur. 

No attention is given to the fact of my having been 
Recorder to the Court of Inquiry, which closed its 
proceedings in Capt. Riley's case just before we left 
Puebla. Genl. Worth said he wanted me, and presto, 
detail was overlooked, and out came the order. So long 
as there is a hope of our having peace and being per- 
mitted soon to return home, I am willing to do, double, 
all duty. Home, how simple the word, and yet how 
much does it carry to, or excite in, the heart of one who, 
for long and tedious months, has thought years might 
elapse ere he could see his home. God grant that this 
may prove no fond dream, but a sweet reality. I do 
not permit myself, even now, to indulge too sanguinely 
in the hope that peace may be made, as some contre- 
temps, the folly and obstinacy of the Mexican Con- 
gress, an outbreak in the City — something may happen 



In Mexico 301 

which would break off negotiations and plunge us again 
into uncertainty, and active, bloody war. Mexico 
is at our mercy, and falls into our hands soon after the 
firing of the first gun, and woe, woe to the City if our 
Army enter it, after a bloody resistance. I dare not 
think of it. The sight of a sacked City either maddens 
the brain, or breaks the heart of a sensitive person. 
Enough for to-night. God keep me from ever wit- 
nessing, or being an actor in such scenes. 

Sunday, August 29th. 

Our Commission met this morning in compliance with 
our order, but adjourned over till to-morrow morning, 
when we meet in the Cortina Palace. In Madame 
Calderon's pleasant book on Mexico, you may remem- 
ber her speaking of this family, this house and its fine 
collection of paintings. I shall take occasion to examine 
the paintings. As yet, though I have seen some thou- 
sands of paintings in the Churches in this Country, I 
have not seen one that I would call a great work. I 
am anxious to visit the City, where I presume some of 
the best paintings may be seen. 

I have not heard what progress Mr. Trist is making 
in his treaty-making, but was told by Capt. Scott, of 
the General's Staff, this morning that everything was 
going on well. 

Whilst impressions are fresh on my mind, I may as 
well state the differences I observe between the Mexicans 
this side the mountains and those at Puebla. The race 
is larger than those I saw beyond the mountains. Their 
features, too, differ very considerably; — the face is per- 
haps longer, with higher forehead, and cheek bones less 
projecting, the complexion is lighter. 

It may be wrong to generalize imtil I see masses in 



302 An Artillery Officer 

Mexico, as I did at Puebla. This being a small place, 
we see but few ; the women are not handsome, perhaps 
better looking than the Pueblans. Less use is made 
of earthen ware than at Puebla; here, copper vessels 
tinned are apparently in quite general use in the 
kitchens. 

The water-carriers do not use the Egyptian vessels 
I attempted to describe in one of my letters, but one 
of a pitcher-like form, with one handle — two are sus- 
pended from the end of a stick, which is supported on 
the shoulders. ^ If these pitchers do not balance well, 
't is because I am not accustomed to carrying them, 
because that is the way; they are frequently steadied 
by the hands being placed against the handles, that 
you may imagine. 

Whether the descendants of the Aztecs are as re- 
markable for their sobriety as are their transmontane 
brothers, I am not prepared to say. 

In our market here we have oranges, pineapples, 
bananas, limes, pears, apples, and peaches. The vege- 
tables are the same I have mentioned as being in the 
Puebla market. I purchased a fine head of cauliflower 
this morning. 

The scamps have raised the prices on us; in small 
places they always do — in Mexico we could purchase 
marketing much cheaper. I did not mention that at 
Chalco we had the guava in market and in Puebla, just 
before we left, I saw a few beets. 

Monday, August 30th. 
This. has been quite a busy day; the trial before 
our Commission and bringing up our proceedings 
engaged me till nearly dark, and then, in consequence 

' A sketch was enclosed in letter. 



In Mexico 303 

of Sergt. Brown's death, as there was no one who 
understood anything about the papers for muster to- 
morrow, I was compelled to take hold of them. 

I will not omit, however, having a chat with you, 
which must be short, as I have to prepare a charge 
against a man whom I shall take before the Commis- 
sion for trial to-morrow. 

I saw Mr. Trist, this morning; he appears to be in 
very good spirits in relation to his duties and progress 
in them. Herrara, the head of the Mexican Commis- 
sioners, formerly President for a short period, is con- 
sidered the most honest and honorable of their public 
men. His being on the Commission augurs well, I 
think. There may be some shuffling in the Congress, 
which may prevent its ratification. Nous verrons. 

The view from the highest point of this City is 
magnificent : the great City of Mexico, with Ft. Chapul- 
tepec in the foreground, on the left of the picture, and 
beyond and around the City, a highly cultivated plain 
interspersed with lake and mountain, or intersected 
by turbulent little mountain rivers; the whole sur- 
rounded by mountains, among which, in fair weather, 
we still see our old friends, Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl, 
presents a view well worthy of the artist's pencil. 

In the plain, among other trees, we see lines or 
avenues of trees resembHng somewhat our Lombardy 
poplars, but which, whether from the vastness of the 
plain or the background of lofty mountains, are, 
however, unlike the barrenness of our broomstick tree, 
and really produce a pleasing effect in the landscape. 
Good-night. 

Tuesday, August 31st. 
The last day of this year's summer has gone — will 



304 An Artillery Officer 

the ensuing fall months be more quiet than, or as tur- 
bulent as, those that have just passed away, or will 
they return me to my beloved family? Would that 
I could command an affirmative answer to the latter 
query. All at Hd. Qrs. seem to think that the last 
battle has been fought. I hope that they may not be 
deceived. From our Court-room, I stole off for a few 
minutes to see some of the pictures in the Palace. I 
only examined rapidly a few that are in a bedroom. 
One, a very sweet face, is a young lady asleep — modem, 
but very prettily colored. An old painting comes next, 
representing a Spanish lady, of the age perhaps of 
Isabella, very well executed, a valuable painting. 
The remarkably fine large head in front of you as you 
turn your back to the light, is modem; the keys in his 
hand designate St. Peter. This is a good picture, but 
does not present to my mind the characteristic expres- 
sion of the features of the great Apostle. 

But your eye, I see, wanders to, and is now fixed 
admiringly upon, that sweet picture in the comer on 
your left. It is a lovable picture, modem, but charm- 
ing. A young mother kissing and oh, so sweetly 
kissed by her infant. 'T is the waking moming kiss. 
The mother is partially raised in bed, and holds her 
child, who has just waked, in her arms. (I correct 
here, the mother, in her night-dress, leans over her 
infant, as if raising her from her crib.) The little hand 
which seeks for the fountain of nourishment, shews 
that the little angel thinks of something besides the 
loving kiss she takes and gives. How I wish you 
could see this picture. There are many others in the 
house, but this is, I fancy, to be my favorite. If I 
can get a good daguerreotypist here, I will endeavor 
to bring you a view of this charming work. Both 



In Mexico 305 

faces are beautiful; easy and graceful is every attitude 
of each. 

I find that I did an injustice to Genl. Worth in my 
remark about the returning of Col. Belton's report, — 
he only wished Col. Belton to omit the tactical part 
of the report, and desired him to mention all Officers 
who had particularly distinguished themselves. Col. 
B. got in a pet, and struck out all mention of the 
Officers. 

September 8th. 
Though I am now engaged on another sheet to com- 
plete No. 19, I will send this as it is, reserving the 
other part for another opportunity. Yesterday, I 
sent a letter by Mr. Kendall's express. I have this 
morning heard that Genl. Quitman and Lt. Welsh are 
to leave to-morrow morning for the United States and 
have determined to trust my budget to them. The 
chances are that they will go safely through — I pray 
to God that they may — for their lives are of value to 
our Coimtry. I must now close, as 't is time to send 
the messenger off. Nos. 14 to 19 inclusive are sent 
in three packages. 

Sunday, September 26th. 
I close this to send by the Minister's Express. 

Wednesday, September ist. 
I am so completely wearied with my day's writing 
(as Judge Advocate of a Military Commission) that I 
can only give you my blessing, and say good-night. 

Thursday, September 2nd. 
The Commission, fortunately for me, adjourned this 



3o6 An Artillery Officer 

morning, to give the prisoner, a Mexican, time to get 
his witnesses. I have thus had a day of rest, and am, 
thank God, quite fresh again. Cases multiply in 
about the proportion of those we try, so that we have 
a prospect of having occupation as long as we remain. 
Indeed, Genl. Worth told me that he intended keeping 
lis as a permanent Court. One advantage may be 
derived from my being on this duty, as it will prevent 
my being put on other duty which would expose me 
to the changes of weather, the very thing now to be 
avoided. 

I was so much fatigued yesterday, that I did not 
mention my morning's visit to Count Cortina's picture 
rooms; there are six, I think. It is the most valuable 
collection I ever saw. I was disappointed in two which 
were called Murillo's: two mothers with infants; they 
did not strike me as very remarkable. There are 
several in the collection, by painters imknown, I pre- 
fer to these two. The subjects are so numerous that 
I cannot attempt naming them, much less to describe 
what I think are their beauties. I passed rapidly, too 
rapidly, through the rooms, knowing that I had a 
great deal of writing to be finished by nine this morning. 
And again, I hope to enjoy again and again, the pleasure 
of entering those rooms. I went again to see the mother 
and infant; as a work of art, it has superiors in the 
collection, but not one seemed to me so sweet, so lovely. 
There is a playful, roguish archness in the darling, as 
it steals to uncover the mother's breast, inexpressibly 
sweet. The Count is said to be the richest man in 
Mexico ; his heirs would not miss the picture, were he 
to give it to me. 

At the General's Quarters this morning, I again heard 
that Mr. Trist was in fine spirits as to his prospects, I 



In Mexico 307 

hope that he is not a sanguine man. I wrote hastily to 
you this afternoon, the letter to go by Mr. Kendall's 
express. I am anxious that you should receive it, or 
the one sent on the 29th ult. May you get one or 
both, as your mind will then be relieved. 

September 3rd. 
I was about taking my seat at my table, after dinner 
to-day, to bring up my day's proceedings, when Lt. 
Andrews came in, and said that Genl. Quitman and Lt. 
Welch, were to start to-morrow morning for the United 
States, and that if I would get my letters ready in fifteen 
or twenty minutes, he would send them down. Busi- 
ness was readily laid aside, and all my old talks, from 
No. 14 to 19 inclusive, were folded, sealed and directed 
by the time appointed. I had barely time to add a 
few lines to the first part of this No. 19. To Mother, 
I was very anxious to write, but the notice was too 
short. I hear since our letters were sent, that Genl. 
Quitman will not leave to-morrow ; if so, I may still add 
another letter to your already large stock, and also 
write one to my Mother. This has been a very busy 
day with me, and as it is now late, and I feel much 
exhausted, I must to bed, and now good-night. 

Saturday, September 4th. 
Our Commission, like a Christian, a reasonable body 
of men, adjourned over till Monday, so that to-morrow 
I shall be necessarily engaged only a small part of the 
day. I have just returned from Genl. Scott, with 
whom I dined. He shewed me his report; it is long, 
but will be read with great interest by all Americans, 
as he gives a clear and vivid sketch of the events of 
the 20th. 



3o8 An Artillery Officer 

My poor Regiment is not, I think, named in the 
Report, not that it did not perform its duty, but be- 
cause it performed no brilliant achievement ; it was not 
the foremost in entering field-work before which so 
many of our brave men fell. I should have been 
mortified to death had I been with the Regt. and could 
not have carved some bauble of honor. They may be 
baubles, but they are welcome, and, generally, dearly 
bought prizes to us. And though no one knows more 
truly than the soldier how many blanks there are in 
the wheel of Fortune, to one prize, still, like the gam- 
bler, he ventures o'er and o'er, even health and life 
itself, to win that prize. 

The commencement and some of the concluding 
paragraphs of the General's report (that of the 20th) 
are beautifully and forcibly worded. The sub-reports I 
have not read, but I have no doubt that every one who 
made a report looked more particularly to elevating 
self on the ladder, than to doing justice to those who were 
under his command. 

Genl. Shields and Genl. P. Smith distinguished 
themselves greatly on that day. Genl. Smith stands 
as high with the Army for good sense and military 
qualifications as perhaps any man of his rank with us. 
Mr. Trist, who lives with the Genl., appeared in good 
spirits to-day. I asked him, however, no questions 
about his duties, or what I so much desire to know, 
what he thinks of the prospects of peace. This state 
of uncertainty must ere long come to an end, as the 
points in dispute cannot certainly occupy reasonable 
men longer than a couple of weeks more — and that 
time, to regard it as intervening between this period 
and that when we may know when we are to go home, 
appears an age. Good-night. 



In Mexico 309 

Sunday, September 5th. 
I feel so wretchedly, to-night, that were it not Sun- 
day I do not think that I could say even a few words 
to you. We fancy that very important and interesting 
events are taking place in the City to-day. Heavy 
firing we think we heard, and continued, too, for some 
time. If this be so, Santa Anna must have been en- 
gaged in quelling some pronunciamiento. He is so 
shrewd that it is probable that he foresaw and was 
prepared. In that case if his Army prove faithful, he 
will place himself more firmly in power, in consequence 
of the riot. If his Army participated in the disaffection, 
he will certainly be hurled from his high, but usurped, 
position. To-morrow we shall know whether our 
speculations and imaginations are true or not, and I 
hope that I shall then feel well enough to write to you. 
May God keep you both in health and happiness. 

Monday, September 6th. 

Only a word or two to-night. For really I am so 
much out of spirits at this continuance of my indispo- 
sition, at the very time I may desire to have all my 
energies. The Mexicans are acting in bad faith to- 
day, and I learn that Genl. Scott has sent word to 
Santa Anna that unless an apology be sent to-morrow 
for the violation of the truce to-day, our batteries will 
open to-morrow at 12 m. 

The troops in Ft. Chapultepec have been seen at 
work at its defences to-day, in clear violation of the 
Articles of the truce. All of our woimded and sick are 
now being moved to what is called the Palace, a building 
belonging, I think, to Genl. Santa Anna. 

Chill and fever again this morning! Is this not too 
hard? I take a dose to-night which will, I hope, get 



310 An Artillery Officer 

everything right by Wednesday, and we shall scarcely 
have any heavy work before that day. Our troops lie, 
to-night, ready to move at a moment's warning. I must 
be in the next fight. 

Tuesday, September 7th, three p.m. 

We have been ready for the last three hours to move 
at a moment's warning. The truce was broken yester- 
day, by the Mexicans, and this morning, Genl. Santa 
Anna, I hear, wrote and sent a very impertinent 
"buncombe" letter to the Genl. Their troops, at all 
events, commenced moving out of the City early this 
morning, and are now drawn up in line of battle with 
their left resting on Ft. Chapultepec. Genl. Scott and 
Staff are engaged in reconnoitring his position, so that not 
many hours can elapse before we have another battle. 

What Santa Anna expects to gain by the great loss 
of blood which must flow in such an event, I cannot 
conceive, unless it be that the numbers of the Mexicans 
are so greatly over the handful of men our Govt, has 
sent here as its Army, that he can well give us a few 
battles, five to one, and knows that in this way we 
must soon be annihilated. 

So constantly has victory perched on our banners 
under every disadvantage and with every odds against 
us, that we may well hope and believe that God is 
fighting our battles with us, or rather for us. 

Whilst midway of the last sentence, we were called 
out by the cry that "the Mexicans are coming," but 
soon finding that it was a false alarm, we returned to 
our quarters. I begin now to doubt whether we will 
have a fight to-night, or not. Perhaps we may make 
a night attack, perhaps the battle will be fought to- 
morrow. 



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In Mexico 3ii 

Should God spare my life, I will resume this letter 
the earliest moment after victory. That He may con- 
tinue to guard and guide you in your path to Heaven I 
humbly pray. 

Mexico, September 22nd. 

This day two weeks ago since I was wounded. Oh, 
how devotedly I should offer thanks to our Heavenly 
Father for His preservation of my life on that dreadful 
day. The papers will give you full details of our losses 
in killed and wounded, I will now, as I cannot write 
much at a time, confine my remarks to what will be 
most interesting to you. 

Leaving our Quarters about half -past two A.M., 8th 
Sept., we, after being kept a long time in the streets of 
Tacubaya, reached our position in front of the building 
called the Foundry, and better known as "El MoHno 
del Rey," our men were ordered to lie down on the 
road, so as to conceal themselves from the observation 
of the troops in Ft. Chapultepec. We remained there 
until a few discharges had been made by our Arty, when, 
just before sunrise, we were ordered to advance. 

The firing of musketry and cannon was at this time 
very severe on our left. We approached and when 
within about two hundred yards of the Foundry, we 
were received with an aAArful shower of grape and 
musketry, the column was ordered to halt, and the 
men ordered to shelter themselves against the wall on 
our right, the angle here making a shoulder which 
partially protected our troops. 

This rough sketch* may help me a little. The line 
at the right and top, marked "a-a-a-" is where the 
troops took shelter from the fire of the enemy, who 

• A diagram was enclosed in letter. 



312 An Artillery Officer 

lined the housetop in every part. When we had re- 
mained a short time there, two of Capt. Drum's guns 
were unlimbered and, seeing that there were few men 
at the first, which they were bringing up by hand, I, 
more for example's sake than anything else, assisted 
at it. This gun was placed in position, and commenced 
firing. I then stepped a few paces back, and observing 
that the men were slow in bringing the other gun for- 
ward, I took hold of the trail, which I left as soon as it 
was in position, and when I saw men enough at it to 
manage it. 

I then hurried towards the Regt., which was then 
some paces in the rear, when I felt a severe blow against 
my right shoulder; it was like the blow from the ball 
in a leaded cane ; — I supposed that it was a spent ball 
which had hit me, and fallen to the ground — another 
step and I felt a tingling pricking sensation in my left 
arm. I, without raising my hand or giving any intima- 
tion of being wounded, regained my Command, and on 
my remarking to some Officer that I believed I had been 
touched by a spent ball, was told that there was blood 
on my cloak. In a few minutes, I heard some one call 
out, "Come on, they are abandoning their battery." 
I stepped out and saw Lt. Prince, 4th Infy., in the road, 
waving his hand (the 4th and 6th Regts. Infy. were 
in front or advance of us). I immediately called out 
"Forward 3rd Arty.," and rushed forward. Lt. Prince 
was shot down while he was calling out. I found myself 
under the enclosure of the Foundry, the enemy still 
lining its walls. 

My wound giving me much pain, had now rendered 
me a little less vigorous than I was, and I was joined 
by Lt. Andrews and Capt. Ayres and went forward. 
Mr. Andrews begged me to send for more men, as the 



In Mexico 313 

Mexicans were in too great force for us to enter the 
passageway marked (X), the enemy being in consider- 
able numbers in the enclosure (d) and on the walls 
around it. Getting a half dozen men more, I went 
forward and entered the enclosure imder a pretty 
galling fire. As I passed through the passageway, a 
ball grazed my right leg, grazing the bone outside 
about three inches below the knee. 

We had tolerably warm work in retaining possession 
of this place, and in killing and driving the enemy from 
it. He made repeated attempts to dislodge us, but, 
thanks to God, did not succeed. In about two hours 
officers came in with re-enforcements, who ranked me, 
and then all the fighting, responsibility, and excitement 
being over, and my wound becoming stiff, I realized 
that I felt discomfort from my wound. A drink of 
spirits from a soldier's canteen revived me, but in a 
few minutes I fell. 

In a half hour I was on my way to my quarters, Lt. 
Andrews kindly accompanying me. Dr. Harney soon 
came to see me and told me that the ball was in me but 
would do no harm. Without probing the wound, or 
allowing anything to be done to give me pain, he 
ordered a poultice of bread and milk, or water to be 
applied. I am now using the same kind. My wound 
is about three inches below the point of the shoulder, 
and the ball. Dr. Steiner (who probed the woimd for 
me to-day) thinks, is under the knot of muscles under 
my arm. The hits on my left arm are from slugs or 
buckshot and though they leave a mark, are nothing. 
The Doctors say that I must have been shot by some 
Mexican above me ; if so, it must have been as I faced 
to the left at the trail of the second gun and the man 
must have been on the wall at the angle "c." 



314 An Artillery Officer 

On the nth I was taken in my "old camp bed-cot," 
to Mixcoac where I was kindly received by Lt. Cald- 
well, U. S. Marines, and remained with him, Dr. 
Harney coming to see me two or three times each day, 
till the 1 8th when I came to this City, my cot being 
placed as it stands in an Ambulance. 

I remained that night in Genl. Tomel's house, used 
as a Hospital for the Officers of the 1st Division, and 
the next day came to the Qrs. I now occupy, — a room 
in Genl. Valentia's house. My house mates are Major 
Wade, whose wound is doing well, Capt. Huger and 
his three Ordnance Subalterns. 

The battle of the 13th of course I missed. My old 
cloak (which I wore on the 8th thinking I would have a 
chill that day, having had one on the 6th) bears the 
marks of service. Thanks be to Almighty God for my 
preservation; the fire was more severe than I ever 
thought it could be in battle. For a few moments I 
was apprehensive that we must either be cut down or 
driven back, but God gave us the victory. The 
enemy's forces more than quintupled ours. Poor Lt. 
Col. Graham fell, gallantly cheering his men on. I 
have written too much and will stop for to-day. 

Thursday, September 23rd. 
I find that my letter to you from Tacubaya which I 
endeavored to have sent by the Br. Courier, did not 
go. Most deeply do I regret this, as I fear the one 
which was taken two or three days ago has been 
captured by some of the guerrilla bands that infest 
every part of the road to Vera Cruz. The City has 
been quiet since I entered it. But an order of Genl. 
Scott's, published yesterday, informs us that there is 
a conspiracy headed by some cowardly officers and 



In Mexico 315 

false priests to assassinate our brave little Army. The 
principal conspirator is said to be an Irish priest, 
named McNamara, who has been tampering with our 
soldiers, offering them lands in California if they desert, 
etc., etc. I hope, if the evidence is conclusive against 
him, that he will be hung. 

Santa Anna, the night he fled, opened the prison 
doors, letting loose the scoundrels who were under- 
going their just punishment for murder, robbery, and 
other crimes. These are some of the tools he designed 
to be used in this conspiracy. The Genl. enjoins 
vigilance on officers and men, and will doubtless take 
all possible means to detect and stifle this vile plot. 
I cannot but think that we are here to carry out some 
great scheme of Providence, and that God will inter- 
pose his powerful arm in our defence and protection. 
We hear that Genl. Patterson brings from Brazos 
about 4000 men. Having written as much as I ought, 
Iwill here stop. 

Friday, 24th. 

Dr. Steiner has changed my dressing, having given 
me a simple layer of lint, kept in place by thin strips 
of adhesive plaster. He says that the wound has a 
healthy appearance and that it is doing well. 

To-day I have been shopping, intending to procure 
some engravings for you, representing the manners and 
customs of the Indians of the Country. I succeeded 
in getting only three, and fear that I will not be able 
to procure any more. I amuse myself walking a short 
distance down the street, looking at their stores, some 
of which excel, in the richness of their goods, anything 
I ever saw in the United States. But such prices! 
A man who furnishes his house here as many of them 
are furnished, must be rich indeed. 



3i6 An Artillery Officer 

I saw Genl. Bravo's saddle to-day, the seat worked 
with gold and with much rich ornamental work about 
it; it cost the genteel sum of five hundred dollars. I 
have not visited the market or any of the public build- 
ings, but hope in a week to be well enough to wear my 
coat, when I will take my time in examining the curi- 
osities of the City. Good-night. 

No. 20. Mexico, October i, 1847. 

Thanks be to God, for so far having restored me to 
health as to enable me to resume my nightly conver- 
sations with my wife. Will the letters despatched by 
the Br. Minister's Express on the 28th ult. and the 
note sent this morning by private express reach you? 
I hope they, or at least one of them may, for I know 
the interest, the almost burning anxiety which you 
will feel, till you have it from my own hand that I 
am safe. 

My woimd is now nearly well; the new skin com- 
menced forming over its edges yesterday. Yesterday, 
too, was the first day that I have been able to shave 
myself; the task was executed, I assure you, with a 
thankful heart, and almost boyish delight, but the 
day previous was not quite so delightful a day to me, 
as I had my old enemy, a chill, succeeded by a most 
burning and long continued fever. Under Dr. Steiner's 
prescriptions (he comes and dresses my wound daily), 
I took eleven pills yesterday and this morning, and I 
have missed the chill to-day. I presume that I shall 
have to take quinine for a long time. 

This attack has delayed my moving to Genl. Scott's 
Quarters. I shall go to-morrow should nothing occur 
to prevent it. 

To-day I sent for Sergt. Robinson, who was very ac- 



In Mexico 317 

tive in procuring additional men for us when we first 
entered tlie Foundry on the 8th Sept., and thanked 
him for his valuable services. He seemed highly- 
gratified at what I said to him. On the 8th I recom- 
mended for promotion to a Corporalcy, one of the 
privates of "G" Co. whose conduct was reported to me 
as having been very gallant; Capt. Burke handsomely 
acceded to my recommendation, and he was appointed 
on the field of battle. My poor Company is cruelly 
cut up; I shall resume its command with melancholy 
feelings. Leaving Vera Cruz with nearly a hundred 
in its ranks, I shall now find its privates reduced by 
death and absentees in the hospitals, to less than 
thirty. I feel that I have written enough for to-night. 
Good-night. 

Sunday, 3rd. 
Yesterday, I moved to Genl. Hd. Qrs. where I am 
now very comfortably at home. Mr. Trist is the only 
fellow-Hver with the Genl. Thinking yesterday, that, 
as I was coming here, I would spruce up a little, I had 
my suspenders put on, and wore them all day. Last 
night I suffered for my folly, their pressure on the 
muscles just below the point of the shoulder giving 
me an imeasy stiffness and heaviness of my shoulder 
all night. Dr. Steiner says he never knew a similar 
wound to heal as well and rapidly as mine has. He says 
that had the ball penetrated perpendicularly at the 
point where it struck, I must certainly either have lost 
my life instantly, or that amputation must have been 
made at the shoulder joint. It was deflected from its 
course, turning down the arm, by the muscles. Every 
day's reflection convinces me more and more of the 
vastness of my obligation to God, for having preserved 



3i8 An Artillery Officer 

my life on that dark and most bloody day. Oh, that 
my gratitude may effect a salutary change in my cold 
and sinful heart. 

To-day, I am wearing my old comfort, the morning 
gown, properly, with the right arm in its sleeve — the 
first day I have done so; I am still compelled to wear 
my night-shirts, as they only are sufficiently large for 
me to put on and off with any comfort, and to enable 
the Dr. to dress my wound. I have now been using 
simple salve on the lint four days. Dr. Steiner is very 
attentive. I am not sure whether I mentioned that 
my valet was wounded the same day I was. He was 
wounded in the breast, the ball grazing the breast bone, 
and passing horizontally out about three inches from 
the first hole where it entered. I have kept him with 
me, though, until I moved here, I have had another 
man with me, a young soldier, named Hart,^ who has 
been exceedingly kind and attentive. I shall miss his 
services much, as he is much smarter and quicker than 
my firm friend Derr. 

Yesterday at a quarter to eight a.m. we experienced 
the severest earthquake I ever felt. The house shook 
and undulated so sea-like as to make many persons 
sea-sick. The Mexicans threw themselves on their 
knees, and so remained till all was again still. Old 
Popocatepetl must have been thinking of paying us a 
prank, reminding us that his volcanic fires are not ex- 
tinct. The gentleman, now Prussian Minister to 
Washington, found its fires active enough to throw 
stones nearly to the top of the crater, when he visited 
its edges some ten years ago. 

Rumor states to-day that Genl. Taylor is marching 

^ Hart was taken down by my mother to Ft. Sumter, remained 
with my father, and hoisted the Flag after it was shot down. 



In Mexico 319 

towards San Luis Potosi. The Genl. discredits the 
report. Enough writing for to-day. 

Monday, 4th. 

Still doing well — rested well last night. Not until 
yesterday did I learn that Genl. Scott had made applica- 
tion about the igth or 21st of last November, for me to 
be appointed Asst. Adjt. Genl. with the rank of Major, 
to enable him to select me as Chief of his Staff; my name 
was sent in with two others, Capts. De Hart and Vinton. 
As if to show him that his desires and rights should 
both be disregarded, neither was appointed, and thus 
has the Genl. had thrown upon himself a vast quantity 
of labor which would have been confided to an exper- 
ienced Staff Officer. Never before was a Genl. com- 
manding an Army on the Field, he the highest Officer 
of the Army, refused, in any other service, the right of 
selection of his Chief of Staff. 'T is too contemptible. 
If the people of the United States do not see through, 
and visit with just indignation, the conduct pursued 
by the War Dept. towards Genl. S. ever since he left 
the United States, they are not fit to be ruled by, or 
to have honest men in office. 

No news to-day from any point. Col. Hitchcock 
did me the honor to read to me last night, requesting 
my suggestion of any alteration that might occur to 
me, a proposed introduction to a number of letters, 
written in this City the night of the 20th Aug., and 
giving their comments on the operations of that day. 
The Colonel's introduction is, like everything from his 
pen, well written. If he decides upon its publication, 
I shall take care of a copy for home. 

Genls. P. and W. have given the Genl. infinite dis- 
tress, by inaccuracies in their reports, assuming to 



320 An Artillery Officer 

themselves the giving of Orders and the execution of 
Movements upon the field of battle, distinctly directed 
by the Genl. The selfish vanity of some men leads 
their memory entirely astray; vanity and ingratitude 
together have destroyed high merits in others. Good- 
evening. 

Wednesday, 6th. 

Genl. S. gave me a duty to execute last afternoon, 
which prevented my continuing my letter. I am to- 
day doing well. This morning Lt. Hamilton and I 
walked to the Museum courtyard, where we saw the 
justly celebrated equestrian statue of Charles IV. It 
is colossal, cast in bronze by a Mexican artist, named 
Tolsa. I admire neither the expression of the rider, 
nor the form of his horse, but the perfectness of so 
huge a casting is wonderful and the effect is very fine. 
I prefer it to our marble Washington by Greenough. 

Brantz Myer's work, which I saw for the first time 
to-day, presents a very fair engraving of this statue, 
and gives a pretty good critique on the fat Mexican 
horse, evidently too fat for any other than a very slow 
and short ride. In the beauty and variety of the wax 
figures of the City, so highly praised by foreigners, I 
am thus far, much disappointed. At Puebla I could 
have formed a better and more interesting collection. 
But when, or how I am to get them home, are questions 
which, not being able to answer as yet, keep me from 
making such purchases. 

Last night, for appearance' sake, being in a parlor 
through which Mr. Trist and his visitors have to pass, 
I indulged in sheets, with which I have just provided 
myself. The declaration will appear strange, but 't is 
true ; so long have I been accustomed to our common 



In Mexico 321 

camp bed covering, that it was a sacrifice of comfort 
to appearance. We know nothing certain about Santa 
Anna. He will probably, if he has not already done so, 
leave Col. Childs and go towards the Coast; if so, you 
will hear of him before we do. The Mexicans who bring 
reports are such consummate liars that if they tell 
the truth, 't is by mistake. 

Night before last, we were visited by another earth- 
quake, indeed by two, 't is said a slight one before ten, 
and a tolerably severe one a quarter before twelve. I 
dreamt, or thought in my sleep, that there was one, 
but it did not awaken me. 

The so much talked of rainy season is said to be 
nearly over; soon after the heavens brighten in the 
fall, the vomito takes its departure, and then come 
the Northers. I hope that the Northers will bring us 
heavy arrivals of troops at Vera Cruz, open the com- 
munication with the United States and give us letters. 

Here the Genl. came in, and asked me to join him 
in a walk. I have been with him fifteen minutes and 
left him to finish his walk. The pressure of the cloak 
upon my shoulder prevents my wearing it a longer 
time with any comfort. I have purchased a very light 
sword, which I carry as a cane and as a means of de- 
fence. My old sword is too heavy for me now to use. 
To-morrow, a gentleman leaves this city for Puebla. 
He may go further; if so, I will ask a favor of him — 
one letter will not be much additional to his baggage. 
Enough for to-day. 

Thursday, 7th. 
The gentleman messenger has gone, I believe, but I 
did not succeed in sending a line. News reached the 
City last evening, that Santa Anna left Puebla on the 



322 An Artillery Officer 

morning of the 2nd on his way south ; whether he looks 
for prey or safety, no one knows. Many of his troops 
had deserted at Puebla and those still pretending to 
stand by their colors are said to be rather rabble than 
soldier-like in their conduct. 

To-day we hear that detachments from Vera Cruz 
are en route, that one is on the southern road at Orizaba. 
'T is a pity that the other two (three are said to be 
marching up) had not united. It would be unfortu- 
nate were either detachment to meet with the slightest 
reverse ; it would be magnified into an immense victory, 
and might fan the flame of military ardor which all 
good friends of peace and order in Mexico hope may 
soon be extinguished. 

The condition of the Mexican officers, taken pris- 
oners by us, is truly lamentable. Many of them, some 
of rank as high as Lt. Colonels, have told our officers 
that they were without money, and could obtain not 
a cent from their countrymen. They have been in 
many cases assisted by their enemies. Some appre- 
hensions are entertained about the safety of the letters 
sent by the last express. If my letters by him are 
intercepted, I think I may despond of getting a Hne 
to you. 

I hope that in your next letter you will tell me when 
Father proposes to take up his line of march home- 
wards. I am half inclined to change the direction of 
all letters I may send after the 20th of this month, 
so as to place those that may reach the United States 
after the loth of Nov. in the Camden Post Office. I 
feel anxious to hear how you have passed the summer ; 
what a crowd of news my heart yearns for! About 
your kind and excellent Grandmother's health, I 
feel great anxiety. I can scarcely think after the 



In Mexico 323 

severe attacks she had just prior to my last news from 
her, she can have survived through the summer. She 
is, however, blessed with a glorious constitution, and 
may have recovered to live many years longer. 

Who will dare to read the decisions and will of God, 
under whose displeasure the strong man falls in a mo- 
ment, whilst, at His good will, the invalid is raised to 
health and a happy long life? The shades of evening 
are rapidly darkening my paper, and as I have already 
written as much as I ought to, I shall close with a 
God bless you. 

Friday, October 8th. 

This day one month ago, came off the f oiilly murderous 
tragedy of "El Molino del Rey," a day, an event I can 
never forget. Praised be God that I live to remember 
His mercy alone preserved me ; may it prove to be for 
a good end! The rainy season, now that we are "re- 
velling in the Halls," seems to have begun anew, as we 
have had rain daily for nearly a week. Most fortunate 
was it for our poor soldiers that it did not pay us daily 
visits whilst in march for, and operating against this 
City and its dependencies. 

I have heard one or two newspaper slips read to-day 
from home papers. The Sun of New York is abusive, 
vulgarly abusive of Genl. S. These slips belong to an 
Editor of a Mexican paper. I will try and get a perusal 
of them. A rumor is current in the City that Genl. 
Santa Anna's guard of Cavalry is rapidly deserting, 
that he directed or had four of them shot, and that 
their companions mutinied, and that he narrowly 
escaped. Mrs. Santa Anna has gone, *t is said, to 
Orizaba. If the above rumor be true, the sooner his 
Excellency, "El bien merito," leaves the Country the 



324 An Artillery Officer 

better. The people have no sympathy with him, and 
his only dependence is the Army. 

I did not mention the duty Genl. S. gave me the 
other day ; 't is to collect and arrange all the information 
I can, relative to the Zodiacal or Calendrical Stone of 
the Ancient Mexicans. He thinks somewhat of taking 
it to Washington, if the Mexicans do not make peace 
with us. 

Though my wound, the Dr. assures me, is healing 
very well, I recover so very slowly that I begin to fear 
that a long time will elapse before I can have the good 
use of my shoulder. A little feeling of heaviness or pain 
about the shoulder always indicates when the muscles 
have had exercise enough. I cannot but obey the 
warning; therefore now my adieu. 

Saturday, 9th. 

A captain from Santa Anna's Army reported to the 
Inspector Genl. of our Army, this morning, that he, Genl. 
S. A., went to El Piiial from Puebla, with 5000 men; 
that he commenced fortifying there, but, that on learn- 
ing that Genl. Patterson was on his way up with 
3500 men, he abandoned that position, informed the 
Officers that he was going to Oajaca, and offered all who 
desired them, passports. This man says that so many 
applied for them, that Santa Anna soon declined giving 
any ; that the Army is without pay, and entirely disor- 
ganized, 700 men having deserted since they left Puebla. 
This Captain shewed his passport, and says that he left 
the Army on last Monday, 5th inst. How much of this 
is true time will shew. I believe no Mexican story. All 
these public men seem to make a virtue of lying, in 
all statements having any bearing upon us. 

Our wounded are generally doing well. I fear that 



In Mexico 325 

we shall lose three Lieuts.: Shackelford and Daniels, 
2nd Arty., and Lieut. Bacon, 6th Infy. All three are 
very low, and but slight hopes are entertained of their 
recovery. Genl. S. is still engaged upon his report 
of the battles of the 12th and 13th September. He was 
delayed by waiting for the Division Reports, and is 
compelled to write a lengthy report, in order to set 
transactions in a true light, which are misrepresented in 
some two of the Division Reports. The affair of the 
8th, more deadly and requiring more nerve than almost 
any portion of the other battles, is not dwelt upon, 
because 't is an affair that, though reflecting high credit 
on the troops, if truly criticised will not do as much 
for the Milty. reputation of a certain Commander 
and some of his Staff. That Commander is not 
Genl. Scott. We hear nothing from Queretaro, the 
seat of the nominal Mexican Govt. Enough. Good- 
evening. 

Monday, nth. 
Report says to-day, that over three thousand Amer- 
ican soldiers have arrived at Puebla, and that the 
Mexican troops abandoned, thereupon, that City. I 
presume that they (our troops) will not come any 
farther, as there are now as many troops here as will be 
necessary ; the Army that has won, can surely keep the 
City. I am delighted to hear of the approach of re- 
enforcements, as I look to them for letters, and also as 
being the means of, ere long, opening, and keeping 
open, the road to Vera Cruz. With the troops en route 
may be expected some Officers who have been on the 
recruiting service. Many of the woimded have hoped 
to be ordered home in their places. I fear that most of 
them will be disappointed, as from an expression used 



326 An Artillery Officer 

by the Genl. a day or two since, I think he will send 
very few, if any, home. 

I read to-day, with infinite disgust, Genl. Worth's 
report of the battle of Molino del Rey; he mingles, in a 
single paragraph, the names of Officers who distin- 
guished themselves greatly by gallantry and zeal, and 
those who were not remarked for more than an ordinary 
discharge of their duty. In the 3rd he mentions every 
Officer on the field but one, and to my knowledge, he 
deserved to be named equally as much as two who 
were. He makes Lt. Col. Duncan his hero; the Di- 
vision do not, in this case, confirm his decree — not that 
Duncan was not brave, but, as he had charge of the 
Arty., we know that a longer continuance of its fires 
that morning, before the advance of the Infy., would 
have saved many valuable lives. 

Our force on the 8th including everybody engaged, 
was 3251 against a Mexican force Genl. Worth reports 
at 14,000. We lost, killed 116, including 9 Officers; 
wounded 665 (49 Officers included); missing 18, total 
of losses 799!! being very near one man out of every 
Jour. May I not call that a murderous affair? On 
the 19th and 20th Aug. our force engaged was 8497, 
of whom 137 (14 officers included) were killed; 877 
(62 officers included) wounded, and 38 were missing; 
a total of 1052. On the 12, 13, and 14th September 
7180 were engaged: killed 130 (including 10 officers), 
and wounded 703 (68 officers included), and missing 29: 
making a total of 862. Grand total in killed, woimded, 
and missing since we reached this basin 2713!! 

Tuesday, October 12th. 
On looking at an old chart (1762) of the coast, from 
Pensacola, East and West, for many miles, I find some 



In Mexico 327 

remarkable differences in the spelling of several of the 
places, etc., showing how much we have modernized 
the original names : San Miguel de Panzacola, Movila, 
Pascagula, B. S. Luis, Pontchartvin, La Baliza, 
Misissippi — the latter may have been spelt incorrectly 
on the chart. 

Yesterday's report about the arrival of troops at or 
very near Puebla is believed here. A member of the 
Mexican Congress, now on his way to Queretaro, says 
that he wants us to annihilate their Army, that this 
being done, the friends of good government will be able 
to establish and maintain that great desideratum. If 
they cannot keep the Army down now they may as well 
abandon all idea of Republican Government. I am 
too much fatigued to write more. Adieu. 

Saturday, October i6th. 

As the Spy Company goes down this evening with 
despatches, I thought of sending this letter by it, but 
am in doubt, even as I write, whether to do so or not. 
As this one has no special news, but embraces a great 
portion of the time since I was wounded, I think I 
will trust it. The Genl. sends a copy of his reports 
by this express — he sent another 4 days ago. I find 
that, though Col. Garland and Capt. Burke mention 
my conduct on the 8th Sept. in terms very compli- 
mentary, and too flattering, my friend Col. Belton 
does not name me in his report. I know the man too 
well, and he thinks by his petty mahce he can punish 
me for it. Thank God, the testimony of a good con- 
science and the approbation of my brother officers, 
witness to my bearing, more than make amends for 
his silence. 

My arm is improving slowly in strength. I hope 



328 An Artillery Officer 

that in a week or ten days I will be well enough to 
return to duty. Lts. Shackelford, 2nd Arty., and Bacon, 
6th Infy., with Asst. Surgeon Roberts (of Georgia) were 
buried two mornings since. Lt. Daniels, 2nd Arty., is 
very much reduced, but hopes are entertained for his 
recovery. I am now wearing an old mixed cotton 
coat I purchased at Tampico. My uniform presses 
too heavily on my shoulder; I found, much to my de- 
light on the 13th inst., that I could wear this coat; up 
to that time I had worn my dressing-gown. I have not 
seen Major Wade for several days, but hear that he is 
doing well. Col. Burnett, N. Y. Regt., came to see 
Genl. Scott to-day. His case is a most wonderful one ; 
shot through the leg, he had the lockjaw for nearly 
three weeks. 

I may as well say a word or two about this great 
City, in the appearance of which I have been greatly 
disappointed. Its Cathedral, market, and the general 
effect of the appearance of the houses as you pass 
through the streets, all compare unfavorably with 
their similars in the "City of the Angels." Perhaps, 
as I am still too much of an invalid to walk much about 
the City, I should not express an opinion till I see 
the whole of it. I will give another opinion without 
hesitation, adverse to this, if I am hereafter better 
pleased with the City than I am now. 

We know not whether Duncan is with the troops said 
to have reached Puebla, or not. They will probably 
remain there, as we have as many here as we want. 

That our Heavenly Father will ever continue to 
guard and guide you is the earnest prayer of your own 
husband, and with all His blessings, I hope He will 
soon enable us to thank Him for restoring me to my 
beloved family. 



In Mexico 329 

No. 21. Mexico, October 14th. 

Casa del El Senor Loreti Vivanca de Moran, Calle 
Espirito Santo. Such I find to be the title of the 
owner of the house in which I now write. Spanish 
and Mexican houses have been so frequently described, 
indeed you may see some of their style of building in 
New Orleans, that I shall say but a few words about 
this. It has two courts ; steps leading a few feet from 
the wall to your right, lead you by an entresol, reserved 
for the servants, to the second or upper story where 
the rooms for the family are; directly in front as you 
reach the last step, you see the door of a Httle ante- 
chamber, which you approach through an open balcony, 
having on your right a double row of geraniums, roses, 
lilies, hydrangias, violets, etc., in large and handsome 
painted earthen pots, the upper row projecting above 
the top of the iron railing of the balcony. On your 
left, the wall is covered with canvas, handsomely 
painted to represent niches, containing vases filled 
with beautiful flowers, having in the background views 
of country and city. The antechamber, has on your 
left a neat bookcase, of inlaid wood, and in different 
places around the wall you find a half dozen cases of 
glass filled with birds (prepared) of Mexico. 

Passing through this room you enter, through a 
double glass door, the parlor, a room about 36 by 16 
feet; the walls and ceilings are very tastefully painted. 
In front of you stands against the wall a long mirror 
with gilded frame, on your left is a long piano. 
The walls are hung with handsome French engravings; 
from the centre of the ceiling hangs a huge bronze 
chandelier, and of course a French clock is to be found 
on a side stand. 

But if you are fatigued, I advise you to be seated 



330 An Artillery Officer 

upon one of the three luxuriant straw-colored sofas 
with blue silk stripes, now as well as the room full of 
chairs so carefully covered with their linen chemises. 
Two large double glass doors lead on to the little 
platform which runs the length of this room with its 
iron balustrade, and enables you to have a view of this 
City of immense wealth, and indescribable misery and 
poverty. 

A door in the middle of the right hand wall (as you 
enter) leads into the Genl.'s bedroom, which, as it has 
no Mexican furniture in it except chairs, tables, and a 
glass doored armoire, I will not describe. This room 
has two doors, one in the same wall as the door through 
which you enter, and to your right leads into an ex- 
ceedingly comfortable room for bathing, washing, etc. 
The door near this one and on its left, leads into Mr. 
Trist's room, next to which is the room I occupy, which 
I must try to draw. * 

Friday, 15th. 
I was called off to join the Genl. in a walk and finished 
my house talk to-day. I thought after commencing 
that I would describe with greater minuteness than I 
at first deemed necessary ; it has so many conveniences, 
that I may say more at some other time — closing now, 
as it is about our time for walking, by saying that all the 
walls of the rooms are covered with canvas painted 
very neatly above and below, and that all the sofas 
and chairs in my room have on their covers of brown 
linen. I omitted mentioning that the curtains, very 
large and full, in the parlor are beautifully and heavily 
worked with thread lace; they are white, and have a 
blue top piece, with gilded head piece. Good-evening, 

' A sketch was enclosed in letter. 



In Mexico 33r 

Sunday, October 17th. 
Yesterday I wrote a little in No. 20, despatched by 
our robber band. I pray that that letter may reach you ; 
it will show you that you have no cause for uneasiness, 
as I tell you there of my daily improvement. I have 
just returned from a stroll, and am so much fatigued 
that I shall now close. To-day I have thanked God 
for His preservation; may He long continue to bless 
us with the light of His countenance and soon restore 
me to you. 

Monday, i8th. 

I have this moment heard that a gentleman, Mr. 
Sandoff, starts for Vera Cruz to-morrow morning, and 
that he will take a few letters. I shall, therefore, 
hastily finish this letter. I was interrupted here by a 
conversation which occurred between Genl. Scott and 
a wounded Capt., one who has lost his right arm. The 
Capt. desired to know whether there was a chance of 
his being permitted to leave the Country. The Genl. . 
laid down the principle he intends pursuing, without 
deviation, he says, for friend or foe — viz.: to permit 
no Officer to leave the Army unless an Army Surgeon 
(in whom he has confidence) shall certify that the 
Officer will not be fit for service for three months. 
This decision is, though, entirely proper, as we have 
very few Officers present with the Companies. 

God grant that ere very long something may bring 
us to a peace. But this hope is almost entirely re- 
moved by what was told Genl. S. a few days since, by 
a member of Congress (the second one who advanced 
this opinion) that there was a very respectable party 
in this Country opposed to our leaving this Country. 
They fear, that as soon as we leave their imfortunate 



332 An Artillery Officer 

Country, the Military will again usurp all authority and 
curse them, as hitherto, with their arbitrary and un- 
just acts. Now although this is very flattering to us, 
as Soldiers and Christians, still it presents a gloomy 
picture of the future to us. 

When will the friends of good order and civil govern- 
ment feel themselves sufficiently strong to walk without 
our sustaining help in the cause of self-government? 
Not until the yeomanry — the voters — are sufficiently 
educated and informed to understand and practise 
their rights, and so debased are they that it must take 
years — many long years — before this result, so necessary 
and desirable, can be effected. The home question 
then bears upon the soul — are we to be kept here as 
guardians of a people who acknowledge themselves 
incompetent of self-government? 

Genl. Scott, you will see, has submitted to the con- 
sideration of the Govt, three propositions, one of which 
he thinks the Govt, must adopt. As you will soon see 
this in print, I will now merely state that two of the 
plans keep us in the Country till Mexico sues for 
peace, and that the third places our Army on the line 
of boundary selected by our Govt. 

The man who took down two letters for you last 
month has returned, and I thus know that they reached 
Vera Cruz in safety. You may know how delighted 
I am at this; I think, as the gentleman who takes this 
is a Mexican, with whom our people will not have 
any questioning, other than perhaps to see his passport 
(rather saje guard from Genl. S.), that this will soon 
reach you. News from below informs us that a large 
mail must be at Puebla. When we shall get our letters 
here is exceedingly doubtful, as Genl. Scott says no- 
thing about sending down for it. What would I not 



In Mexico 333 

give for your letters ; not a line from you of a later date 
than the 24th June. And how many things have oc- 
curred since, of which you regularly informed me. 

Indeed, indeed, my wife, though I write no more 
about resigning — if I can get out of this Country, I 
cannot return to the Army whilst this administration 
holds the reins of power. The news of every appoint- 
ment shows us their prosecution of a plan to insult 
and break down the spirits of our Regular Army Offi- 
cers, many of whom have applied for promotion in 
new regiments and their respectful requests have been 
scornfully treated with silent contempt. Thank God 
my pride has not received that blow from them ! The 
troops now en route have been ordered to garrison 
some new posts intermediate between this place and 
Vera Cruz. Genl. Patterson is permitted to select 
Puebla as his Hd. Qrs., but many think as the command 
there will not be equal to his rank, that he prefers to 
come to this place. 

The papers received by the Br. Consul show that 
you have heard of our entrance into the City. But 
I fear that you have not heard of my lucky escape and 
that your fears represented things in the worst light. 
You have by this time received assurances under my 
own hand, which must have set your heart at rest. 
How signally, how kindly have I been guarded; let us 
never forget to thank God, day and night, for His con- 
stant protection of our little flock. My heart, my 
confidence in Him, whispers to me that your letters, 
so long and ardently expected and hoped for, will show 
that His care has been for you. 

I have been scribbling as hurriedly as possible evei 
since this letter (I mean to-day's portion) was com- 
menced, as the young gentleman who volunteered to 



•^v 



334 An Artillery Officer 

have it taken went hurriedly off to ascertain when the 
letters must be sent and I have been momentarily 
expecting his return. I hope that he may not have 
become so much interested in a dinner party as to 
make him forget my poor letter. It would be almost 
an unpardonable offence. I must now close, however, 
as it is the General's walking time, and the shades of 
evening, now setting in, show that I have but a few 
minutes more of dayhght; the twilight is here, so near 
the equator, very short. May God continue to guard 
you and keep our hearts filled with religious thankful- 
ness and gratitude for all His mercies and goodness to 
us. 

No. 22. EspiRiTU Santo, Mexico, 

Wednesday, October 20, 1847. 

No. 21 was hurriedly finished and despatched yes- 
terday morning by Mr. Linder, a gentleman, friend of 
one of the young gentlemen of the General's Staff, who 
went down in company with the Br. Minister. That 
letter is, I suppose, certain of reaching Vera Cruz 
safely, and I hope that my wife will soon receive it. 
I almost regret not having directed it to Jeffersonton, 
as a long passage would, perhaps, place it there about 
the time of your return. Here there seems to be no 
other change in season than what is produced by the 
rain. 

I stepped this morning into the house just left by 
the Br. Minister to see how his articles sold at auction. 
I find the people "here as big fools as they are with us, 
paying more for things than they could buy them for in 
stores. I thought of buying two little pieces of plate, 
but they soon jumped over my limit. Most of the 
purchasers were foreigners, English and French. 



In Mexico 335 

No news to-day from the seat of Govt. Santa Anna 
has, finding he could gain no laurels on the road, 
started on his return to the seat of Genl. Govt, and 
issued an edict, pronouncing against Pena y Pena on 
whom his resignation threw the robes of office, and 
reassuming the office of President. This is certainly 
the most inconsistent and servile people in the world; 
they allow that man to play upon them as he pleases. 

Until they feel more of the spirit of freedom, and even 
of manhood, than they do now, they are only fit to be 
governed by tyrants. I very much fear that the 
impossibility of forming and maintaining a good, stable 
Govt, will keep us here for an indefinite time. I 
however never allow myself to despair, as I have ever 
foimd things finally (and frequently sooner than I had 
hoped) to be as I hoped and desired. Poor Capt. 
McKenzie, 2nd Arty., was buried this afternoon; he had 
an attack of the pleurisy, I think, and persisted in 
doctoring himself. 

Friday, October 22nd. 

Genl. Scott last night decided that a train of wagons 
were to go to Vera Cruz, leaving this place in five or 
six days. Oh, that I could go with it — but under the 
circumstances in which we are here, that would, I 
suppose, be entirely out of the question. It would be 
unkind in me to make an application after the strong 
manner in which the Genl. has laid down his principles 
relative to Officers leaving the Country. 

To-day I have been out with Derr, trying to make up 
a little box. I have purchased several trifles which I 
thought might amuse you, but I could have pleased 
myself much better at Puebla. I hope to find some- 
thing for you, but at present, in consequence of the 



336 An Artillery Officer 

long continuance of our War and blockade, their stock 
of foreign goods is very much reduced, and of domestic 
articles the Mexicans produce none of any value. 
Derr is a most honest and warmly attached m.an. 
His wound is, I am glad to say, entirely well. 

Many of the cases of Officers, whose limbs have been 
amputated, have not taken so favorable a turn within a 
few days as their previous condition warranted us in 
hoping for. I scribble away, but my heart is in my 
mouth. I can think of nothing but the train that is 
going down and of the hearts that will be gladdened 
by the return of friends and relatives, in some cases 
husbands and fathers. My time may come sooner than 
I dare hope. God grant it. But I almost despair. 

Some one will go whom you will see and they will 
tell you all about me. Do not despond, my wife. 
We shall, I hope, soon meet again, never more to be 
separated; I am "tired of War's Alarms," and dis- 
gusted the more and more perfectly as I hear of the 
appointments made at Washington over us. The Army 
will soon not be, it hardly is now, a place for gentle- 
men. Enough for to-day. Bonsoir. 

Sunday, October 24th. 
Can it be that / shall be the bearer of this letter? 
I will not even yet indulge the delightful thought. 
Lt. Lay told me this morning that Genl. Scott had 
directed his Acting Adjt. Genl. to order me to the 
United States. / have not applied. The Genl. has, in 
his many conversations with me, spoken so warmly 
about everybody's wanting to go home, that I made up 
my mind to remain here. Dr. Steiner told me yester- 
day morning, in the presence of Lt. Hamilton, that I 
ought to go to the United States ; that it would be much 



In Mexico 337 

longer than three months before my arm would be 
well, and that I would not be fit for duty. Lt. H. 
mentioned this conversation to the Genl. who told Lt. 
H. to say to me that if I wished it, I should go. This 
morning Dr. Steiner told me that he would give me a 
certificate, that I would not be fit for duty in three 
months. But I have not even hinted to the Genl. 
that I desired to go, except in general remarks before 
the pubHcation of his order. I am therefore rejoiced 
that, if I go, it will be from no application of my 
own. 

A strange incident has just occurred. The Genl. had 
just taken his seat in his bedroom on returning from 
church, when a Mexican entered it with a confused air, 
and asked in French and in a loud tone if he was Genl. 
Scott. The Genl. immediately sprang up, approached 
him, and asked him in a bold tone how he dared enter 
his bedroom. The man became intimidated and the 
Genl. ordered him out. It appears from his question- 
ings of the guard below, that he was seeking Genl. 
Smith, who struck one of his companions for rudely, 
and in a blackguard's manner, blocking the sidewalk 
as the Genl. and his friends went to, or returned from 
church, this afternoon. 

But am I so soon to see my own beloved? God 
grant that this so great happiness may be in store for 
me. I will indulge a little in the hope. Good-day. 

No. 22. Mexico, October 27, 1847. 
Dearest Wife, 

Words cannot express the gratitude to God I enjoy 
in saying to you that to-morrow I leave Mexico to 
rejoin you. This little note will be sent by the Br. 
Courier, and though he leaves a day after we do, he will 



338 An Artillery Officer 

reach Vera Cruz a week or ten days before us. A 
large train of wagons go down, and our march will 
necessarily be slow. Major Wade and Lt. Welsh also 
leave this Country. Genl. Scott most kindly ordered 
me out without my making an application. He wishes 
me to commence duties on the recruiting service as soon 
as I am sufficiently well to do so. You must not expect 
me imtil about the 20th of November, as I may be 
detained some days in Vera Cruz, and then have a 
tedious passage to New Orleans. Remember the te- 
dious trip I made from Tampa Bay to Tampico. 

I was anxious to take Derr with me, but fear that I 
will not be permitted to do so. He had set his heart 
on it, but he has so far recovered that he cannot go 
out with the invalids. My arm, or rather my shoulder, 
is still very stiff and unmanageable, but a little home 
nursing with quiet will, by the blessing of God, bring 
everything right again. The newspapers will, I think it 
quite probable, announce oiu: coming, as two Generals 
go out — Generals Quitman and Shields — and other 
friends will certainly herald their approach. They are 
both brave and honorable men. Genl. Pillow's inordi- 
nate vanity has so inflated him as to disgust every- 
body. I must not omit mention of your old friends — Lts. 
Judd and Thomas (the smaller) go to Vera Cruz on 
their way to join Genl. Taylor's Army, as the Compy. 
to which they belong is there. Lt. Brown remains 
here — he is very well and deservedly a favorite with all 
who know him. 

October 28th. 
The Express of the Br. Minister is now in Mr. Trist's 
room, having come for the letters. I must therefore 
close. The roads are so muddy that we cannot leave 



In Mexico 339 

for two or three days. That God may bless you, is 
the earnest prayer of your own devoted 

Robert Anderson. 



City of Mexico, 

October 24, 1847. 
I certify on honor, that Captain Robert Anderson 
of the 3rd Artillery has been under my professional 
charge for the last month, from a gun-shot wound in 
the right shoulder, received at the battle of Molino 
del Rey, and that, in my opinion, he will not recover 
the use of his right arm (it being now completely 
disabled) for at least two or three months to come. 

(signed) H, H. Steiner, 

Asst. Surgeon, U. S. A, 



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